National Weather Service Issues Flood Watch for Kauai, Niihau, and Oahu
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flood Watch for the islands of Kauai, Niihau, and Oahu, which remains in effect until September 18 at 6:00 AM HST. Remnant moisture from former Tropical Storm Norbert is bringing periods of moderate to heavy showers that could cause flash flooding.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the Flood Watch on September 17 at 5:40 PM HST. The affected areas span Niihau, Kauai, and Oahu, including Kauai Southwest, Kauai Mountains, Waianae Coast, Oahu North Shore, Olomana, Central Oahu, Waianae Mountains, Kauai North, Kauai East, Kauai South, East Honolulu, Honolulu Metro, Ewa Plain, Koolau Windward, and Koolau Leeward.
Weather officials state that a band of remnant moisture from former Tropical Storm Norbert is moving west across the islands through Friday. This system is expected to bring moderate to locally heavy showers, particularly to the windward sides of the islands. There is also a slight chance of thunderstorms, which could produce briefly higher rain rates and increase the risk of flash flooding.
Expected impacts from the excessive rainfall include elevated runoff and overflowing streams, which may close flood-prone roads and other low-lying areas. Additionally, rapid runoff in urban areas may lead to more significant flooding and property damage.