Powerful kona storm begins trek down island chain; severe weather to persist

A powerful and slow-moving kona low northwest of the islands will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to the state through the upcoming weekend. Expect periods of heavy rain, bringing the potential for flash flooding, strong kona winds, and strong to severe thunderstorms.

“A high-impact weather event continues to unfold across the Hawaiian Islands as a powerful kona low remains positioned northwest of the state. Radar imagery early this morning shows bands of showers lifting north across the state, with peak rainfall rates ranging between 1 and 2 inches. Several streams have already become elevated following the overnight rainfall, and flooding remains possible where heavier showers persist,” the National Weather Service reports.

A Flood Watch is in effect for Maui County from 6 a.m. today until 6 p.m. on Saturday. Watches went into effect for Niʻihau, Kauaʻi and Oʻahu on Tuesday. A Flood Watch will go into effect on Hawaiʻi Island later today.

A High Wind Watch is currently in effect until 6 p.m. on Saturday for Haleakalā on Maui and Big Island summits. The forecast calls for wind from the southwest blowing at 45-65 mph with gusts up to 85 mph possible. Winds this strong can make driving and walking dangerous. The winds can forcefully open doors and damage hinges or slam doors shut, possibly causing injuries.

A High Wind Watch for the summits means that strong and potentially damaging winds in excess of 56 mph with frequent gusts over 66 mph are expected but not yet occurring. The public should take precautions now to protect property by tying down loose objects or moving them to a sheltered location.

“While flash flooding remains a major concern, confidence is increasing that strong to severe thunderstorms may develop Wednesday into the weekend. Damaging winds will likely be the primary hazard with these storms, though large hail cannot be ruled out. In addition to the heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorm threat, strong and potentially damaging kona winds are possible late in the week and into the weekend,” according to the National Weather Service.