Flash Flood Warning for Big Island

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the island of Hawai‘i until 12:45 a.m.

At 9:39 p.m., Hawai‘i County Civil Defense reported that Bayfront Highway in Hilo was closed due to flooding. High water levels are also being reported on the Honoli‘i Stream, Kawainui Stream and Wailuku River.

Radar and rain gauges show persistent rainfall rates of one to three inches per hour, as outer rain bands from Hurricane Lane continue to stream into windward sections of the Big Island.

Additional flash flooding is likely to develop across windward sections of the Big Island during the night due to the persistent heavy rains.

Locations in the warning include but are not limited to Hilo, Na‘alehu, Paauilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidlands Estates, Kukuihaele, Hawi, Pepe‘ekeo, Kea‘au, Honoka‘a, O‘okala and Hawaiian Paradise Park.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS:

• A flash flood warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads, and low lying areas. Move to higher ground now.
• Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle, or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.