NWS Honolulu Issues Flood Watch for Multiple Hawaiian Islands
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flood Watch for several Hawaiian islands through 6:00 PM HST on September 26. Slow-moving Hurricane Nolo remains nearly stationary south of the Big Island, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flooding.
The Flood Watch was issued by NWS Honolulu at 3:48 AM HST on September 26 and covers the Big Island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. Specific areas under the watch include Lanai Mauka, Kahoolawe, Maui Windward West, Maui Leeward West, Haleakala Summit, Kona, Kohala, Big Island Interior, Big Island Summit, Molokai Windward, Molokai Southeast, Molokai North, Molokai West, Molokai Leeward South, Lanai Windward, Lanai Leeward, Lanai South, and Maui Central Valley North.
Excessive rainfall from Hurricane Nolo may lead to flash flooding across the region. Areas at the greatest risk for flooding include the windward and southeast portions of the Big Island, where recent rains have left the ground saturated.
Expected impacts include elevated runoff and overflowing streams, which may result in the closure of flood-prone roads and low-lying areas. Rapid runoff could lead to significant flooding and property damage in urban regions, and landslides are possible in steep terrain.