Flood Watch issued for Maui through Monday afternoon

(Update: 3:34 p.m. Sunday, December 19, 2010)

The National Weather Service has extended a Flash Flood Watch for all Hawaiian islands through Monday afternoon.

(Update: 9:35 a.m. Sunday, December 19, 2010)

Maui County remains under a FLASH FLOOD WATCH through late tonight (Sunday, December 19, 2010).

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding.

The National Weather Service says a very moist air mass is moving northeast across the Islands from the deep tropics. The system will bring widespread rain, some heavier showers, and a risk of flash flooding, at least through tonight.

Earlier this morning, a FLASH FLOOD WARNING was issued for Molokai until 11:45 a.m., but may need to be extended if heavy rains persist. Radar showed heavy persistent rain over the far western portion of the friendly isle at around 8:30 this morning.

Rainfall and runoff can make driving hazardous because of ponding, reduced visibility and poor breaking action. The public is reminded not to cross fast flowing or rising water in their vehicles or on foot.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; supporting information courtesy Naitonal Weather Service and Maui County Civil Defense.)

MauiNOW.com file photo. WO.