Flood Warning for Maui Until 9:45 a.m.

Flood warning. File photo: ʻOheʻo Gulch in East Maui courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

Update: 6:34 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020

The National Weather Service has extended a flash flood warning for the island of Maui until 9:45 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020.

At 6:30 a.m., radar indicated very heavy rainfall over the Hāna coast, and along the slopes of windward Haleakalā. Rainfall rates of two inches per hour on saturated soils is leading to extreme runoff, with additional rainfall expected, according to the NWS forecast.

Some locations that will experience flooding include: Huelo, Paʻuwela, Kīpahulu, Nāhiku, Keʻanae, Kaupō and Hāna.

Update: 3:45 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020

A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for the island of Maui until 6:45 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020.

The National Weather Service says that at 3:40 a.m., radar indicated an area of heavy rainfall across windward and southeast facing slopes of windward Maui. Rainfall rates near 2 inches per hour are noted across the Hāna Highway. Gage readings show the Hanawi Stream and ʻOheʻo Gulch rapidly approaching flood stage.

Flooding in drainages, streams, rivers, roads, properties and other low-lying areas. Public road closures possible in some areas. Landslides are possible in steep terrain.

Some locations that will experience flooding include: Huelo, Paʻuwela, Kīpahulu, Nāhiku, Kaupō, Hāna and Kailua.

A Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring within the warned area. The NWS advises the public to stay away from streams, rivers, drainage ditches, and culverts, even if they are currently dry. “Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle, or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.”

This warning may need to be extended beyond 6:45 a.m. if heavy rain persists.