Flash Flood Warning Issued for East Hawaiʻi

A flash flood warning has been issued across the Hāmākua coast, including the Hilo and Puna Districts, the National Weather Service in Honolulu reported early Tuesday morning.

Initially put out as a flash flood advisory, the NWS upgraded the alert to a warning and extended it to 8:15 a.m. The warning may be continued if flooding persists.

As of 5:03 a.m., radar indicated pockets of moderate to heavy rain across the Hāmākua coast, including the Hilo and Puna districts. Rain was falling at a rate of up to 1 inch per hour.

Although the widespread heavy rains have abated, the Honolii Stream and Wailuku River remains swollen and elevated. This is on top of 3 to 6 inches of rain overnight across the Hamakua coast and in the Hilo and Puna districts. Any additional downpours could lead to road closures and significant flooding particularly the Hilo and surrounding area.

Some locations that will experience flash flooding include Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Honokaʻa, Laupahoehoe, Oʻokala, Paʻauilo, Ninole, Honomu, Hakalau, Pepeʻekeo, Papaikou, Kamuela,
Mountain View, Glenwood, Volcano, Kukuihaele, Waipiʻo Valley, Keaʻau and Waimanu Valley.

All residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are asked to remain alert for possible flooding conditions. Avoid areas known for run-off, flash flooding, and for ponding of water.

Road closures may occur without warning.

Motorists are advised not to cross flooded roadways. Turn around don’t drown. If lightning threatens your area, the safest place to be is indoors.