This sign is posted at the Ulaino River in East Maui, which can overflow during heavy rains, making the road impassable. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch through late Saturday night, Nov. 9, for the islands of Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi, due to an upper level trough and surface shear line approaching the state.

Forecasters with the NWS say the conditions will enhance an “already moist and unstable airmass.”

The agency is forecasting possible brief heavy showers on Saturday afternoon, with the greatest potential for flash flooding occurring tonight.

“Strengthening trade winds, (and) heavy rains will be focused primarily across windward sections,” according to the NWS forecast.

As a precaution, the public is advised to monitor updated forecasts and be prepared should flash flooding occur.

***Supporting information courtesy National Weather Service.