NWS Honolulu Issues Flood Watch for Hawaii's Big Island
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flood Watch for the Big Island, effective from late Saturday night through Monday afternoon. Tropical Depression Two-C is expected to bring heavy rain that could trigger flash flooding across the region.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Honolulu HI issued the Flood Watch at 3:29 AM HST on August 21, with the watch taking effect late Saturday night and remaining active until 6:00 PM HST on August 24. The watch covers Kona, Kohala, the Big Island Interior, Big Island Summit, Big Island South, Big Island Southeast, Big Island East, and Big Island North.
Tropical Depression Two-C is forecast to bring periods of heavy rain to the Big Island from late Saturday night through Monday afternoon. Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected on windward and southeast portions of the island, with localized amounts potentially reaching up to 15 inches. Due to saturated grounds from recent heavy rainfall, additional precipitation could rapidly trigger flash flooding.
Elevated runoff and overflowing streams may force the closure of flood-prone roads and low-lying areas. In urban settings, rapid runoff could result in more significant flooding and cause property damage.
The NWS advises people in the affected areas to monitor ongoing weather updates and be ready to act should Flash Flood Warnings be announced.