Update: Flash flood warning canceled for Big Island

Update at 10:30 a.m. May 19, 2023: The National Weather Service has canceled the flash flood warning for portions of the Big Island.

Waipiʻo Valley Road is reopened to the Hawaiʻi County Mayor’s proclamation emergency access status.

If you experienced flood damage, it can be reported to Civil Defense at 808-935-0031.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for the Kona and Kohala districts of the Big Island until 9:30 a.m. on Friday.

The Waipiʻo Valley Road has been closed to all traffic, the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said.

This morning, radar indicated heavy rain falling at rate of up to 3 inches over Kohala and Kona districts, with the heaviest rain near Puako and Waikōloa Village. Flash flooding is expected.

Flooding in drainages, streams, rivers, roads,properties, and other low-lying areas. Public road closures possible in some areas. Landslides are possible in steep terrain.

Some locations that will experience flash flooding include: Kailua-Kona, Captain Cook, Waikōloa Village, Kapaʻau, Puʻuanahulu,Puako, Kalaoa, Holualoa, Kawaihae, Pōhakuloa Training Area, Honalo, Kamuela, Kahaluu-Keauhou, Kohala Ranch, Kainaliu, Kealakekua, Waimanu Valley, Waipiʻo Valley, Honaunau and Pololu Valley.

This warning may need to be extended beyond 9:30 a.m. if flooding
persists.

For more information, please visit the County of Hawaii Hazard Impact Map