Flood advisory in effect for portion of West Hawai‘i

National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu have issued a flood advisory in effect until 8:15 p.m. today for a portion of West Hawai‘i because of flooding caused by excessive rainfall.

Radar and automated rain gauges indicated at 5:05 p.m. that heavy rain was falling over the lower slopes of North Kona at a rate of up to 1 inch per hour.

Some locations that will experience flooding include Kailua-Kona, Kalaoa, Puʻu Anahulu, Hōlualoa, Kahaluʻu-Keauhou and Kona International Airport.

Minor flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas and streams can be expected.

The public is advised to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas prone to flooding.

Hawai‘i County Civil Defense advises residents in the advisory areas:

• Flooding can be life-threatening.
• Remain alert for flooding conditions.
• Drive with caution.
• Be on alert for runoff, ponding of water, debris and poor visibility.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water in a vehicle or on foot; turn around, don’t drown.
• Remember, if lightning threatens your area, the safest place to be is indoors.

This advisory also might need to be extended if flooding persists.