Flash Flood Warnings Issued for Maui and Oahu: Heavy Rainfall Expected

Flash Flood Warnings: The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the island of Maui until 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2024. At 6:38 a.m., radar detected intense rainfall over windward East Maui, with rates soaring to 2 to 3 inches per hour. Areas at high risk for flash flooding include Nāhiku, Keʻanae, Kīpahulu, Hāna, Kaupō, Huelo, Makawao, Haʻikū-Paʻuwela, Paʻuwela, Pāʻia, Wailua, Haleakalā National Park, Kailua, and Hāmoa.

Additionally, a Flash Flood Warning has also been issued for parts of Oahu until 9:30 a.m. At 6:40 a.m., heavy rain was recorded over windward Oahu, with rates reaching 1.5 to 2.5 inches per hour. Flash flooding is either ongoing or expected to commence soon in locations such as Honolulu, Ahuimanu, Kaneohe, Kahaluu, Waiahole, Kalihi, Maunawili, Moanalua, Aiea, Halawa, Waikane, Kaneohe Marine Base, Manoa, Kailua, Salt Lake, Pearl City, Palolo, Waimanalo, Kaaawa, and Mililani.

Residents are urged to stay away from streams, rivers, drainage ditches, and culverts, regardless of their current dryness, as the torrential rains could trigger rock and mudslides in steep terrain areas. The situation is exacerbated by already saturated grounds, leading to quick runoff and heightened risks of flash flooding.

The Hawaii News Now weather team has declared Saturday and Sunday as First Alert Weather Days for Hawaii Island, as an upper-level disturbance combined with deep moisture may result in heavy rainfall and isolated thunderstorms. Thundershowers are likely on the windward sides of all islands this morning.