Flood Watch for Maui through late Thursday 4/7/11

By Wendy Osher

File image by Wendy Osher.

The state is forecast to receive some wet weather as a strong upper level low approaches tomorrow.  The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for the entire island chain through late Thursday night.

Forecasters say the airmass will become very unstable, with areas of thunderstorms and locally heavy rainfall expected by Tuesday night.  Although the system will move away Thursday, the NWS says southeast winds will bring additional moisture, which could prolong the threat of heavy rain, particularly in the windward areas and southeast facing slopes.

Rainfall and runoff during a flood watch can cause hazardous conditions on the roadways including ponding, reduced visibility, and poor braking action.  Motorists and pedestrians should not cross fast flowing or moving water in their vehicle or on foot.

*** Supporting information courtesy National Weather Service and Maui County Civil Defense.