Flood Watch Issued for Big Island and Maui County
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flood Watch for the Big Island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe, in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Saturday afternoon. Excessive rainfall from a developing tropical system could cause flash flooding across the affected areas.
According to the National Weather Service, a potential tropical cyclone is expected to bring heavy rain to the eastern end of the state over the coming days. Although the exact track of the developing system, which may become Nolo, remains uncertain, heavy rain is likely to begin on Wednesday afternoon.
While very high rainfall rates and flash flooding are possible across the entire watch area, the windward and southeast portions of the Big Island, along with windward Maui, are currently the most likely to experience heavy rain. Other islands within Maui County remain at risk and are included in the watch.
Expected impacts include potential closures of flood-prone roads and low-lying areas due to overflowing streams and elevated runoff. Additionally, rapid runoff in urban areas could result in significant localized flooding and property damage.