Flood Watch Extended to Sunday Afternoon for Maui and Big Island

Flood watch extended to Sunday for Maui and Big Island. Water vapor imagery courtesy NOAA/NWS, Jan. 10, 2020.

The Flash Flood Watch for Maui and the Big Island of Hawaiʻi has been extended through Sunday afternoon.

The National Weather Service says heavy showers and thunderstorms are now possible through the weekend as an upper level trough moves toward the state from the west. The NWS says this trough, combined with enhanced low-level moisture riding the strong trade winds will bring the possibility of flash flooding.

“Although heavy rain will be possible over leeward locations, the areas most susceptible to flooding will be windward and mountain locations, where grounds are already saturated from previous rainfall,” according to the NWS.

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions are favorable for flash flooding. The agency reminds the public not to cross fast flowing water in their vehicle or on foot.

There is also a winter weather advisory in effect for the Big Island summits through tonight with additional snow accumulations of three inches possible.