UPDATE: Wet Weather Flood Watch Cancelled for Maui

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

(Update: 3:49 p.m. 12/15/13)

The NWS states that the threat of widespread heavy rainfall has ended, and the flash flood watch is cancelled for Maui and Oʻahu Counties.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say a band of heavy rain which affected Kauaʻi and Oʻahu during morning and mid-day hours has since weakened, with only scattered showers remaining east of Oʻahu and around Maui County.

(Posted: 12:42 p.m. 12/15/13)

The island of Molokaʻi was placed under a flood advisory at 12:42 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, as wet weather and thunderstorms move over the island from west to east.

The advisory remains in effect until 3:45 p.m., but may be extended beyond that time if heavy rain persists.

Forecasters from the National Weather Service say radar showed heavy rain along a line of thunderstorms moving at around 10 mph at last report.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to stay away from streams, drainage areas, and low-lying areas that are prone to flooding.

The NWS advises the public not to cross fast flowing or rising water in their vehicle or on foot.

There is also a flood watch in effect for the County of Maui, including the islands of Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi until 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15.

According to the NWS, a strong trough in the upper atmosphere will combine with a slow moving surface front to bring the threat of heavy rain to Oahu and Maui County this afternoon.  Warnings that were in effect for the islands of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau have since been lifted.

Forecasters with the NWS say rain will be widespread, affecting both the leeward and windward areas, with intense rainfall rates possible over the slopes, which could lead to flash flooding of streams.