County of Maui officials encourage preparedness ahead of potentially heavy rainfall midweek

County of Maui officials are encouraging residents and visitors to prepare for the potential of heavy rainfall, flooding and isolated thunderstorms as a narrow band of rain moves over the state Tuesday and Wednesday.

National Weather Service (NWS) posted a Flood Watch that goes into effect statewide on Tuesday morning through late Wednesday night. Deep, tropical moisture is moving over the state in a narrow band, packing the potential for moderate to heavy showers.

The heaviest rainfall is forecast late Tuesday night through the first half of Wednesday, with Maui County and Oʻahu facing the highest potential for flash flooding, according to NWS. Rain could linger as late as Thursday and Friday.

To prepare for possible impacts, Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and other County departments are coordinating with state, private and nonprofit partners and monitoring weather conditions.

“We recognize that this has been a busy weather season, and with so many events to prepare for, we understand that people may be experiencing storm fatigue. Still, we urge residents and visitors to remain vigilant, take time now to prepare and stay informed,” Mayor Richard Bissen said. “Our County teams are ready and able to respond if weather conditions warrant.”

Heavy downpours may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are primary concerns, especially because conditions can change quickly, according to MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett.

“We encourage everyone to prepare now and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall. Never attempt to cross flooded roads or streams, whether on foot or in a vehicle,” Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Residents and visitors should also be prepared for potential power outages and disruptions to essential services.” 

Residents and visitors are encouraged to: 

• Review or update family emergency plans and identify safe locations if flooding threatens homes or accommodations. 
• Maintain at least 14 days of emergency supplies, including food, water, medications and other essential items. 
• Clear gutters and drainage areas around homes.
• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, especially in areas prone to flooding, and never drive or walk through flooded roadways or flowing water. 
• Stay away from streams, rivers and other waterways that may rise rapidly during heavy rainfall. 
• Monitor official weather forecasts, emergency alerts and possible road closures. 
• Sign up for MEMA Alerts and Genasys Protect evacuation information at https://www.mauicounty.gov/MEMA. 

Mayor Bissen’s annual Holomua Kākou scheduled for Lānaʻi on Oct. 27-28, 2026, is being postponed due to severe weather forecasts canceling the Lānaʻi ferry. For details, visit www.mauicounty.gov.

For the latest weather forecasts, watches, advisories and warnings, visit NWS at https://www.weather.gov/hfo/. For County emergency preparedness and updates, visit https://www.mauicounty.gov/MEMA.