Catastrophic Flooding Event Forecast for Hawai'i Island

December 5, 2021 at 7:48 am Updated: December 6th, 2021 at 9:17 am Chris

The National Weather Service is forecasting a “Catastrophic Flooding Event” for Hawai’i Island that could bring up to 20-25 inches of rainfall to parts of Hawai’i Island. The following watches, warnings and advisories are in effect:

Flash Flood Watch for Hawai’i Island through Tuesday
High Surf Warning for West and North facing shores of Hawai’i Island
A Wind Advisory through Monday
A Blizzard and High Wind Warning for the summits of Hawai’i Island

We’ll have updates on air and online throughout the day on KWXX 94.7 FM East Hawai’i / 101.5FM West Hawai’i, B97.1FM East Hawaii, B93.1 West Hawaii and KPUA 670 AM and 98.5 FM in Hilo. You can also find the latest satellite and weather radar images on www.KWXXweather.com.

Here’s a complete copy of the statement released by the National Weather Service:

The National Weather Service has issued the following weather statement;

A Flood Watch for the State and Island of Hawaii remains in effect through Tuesday.

The National Weather Service forecasts this to be a Catastrophic Flooding Event with 20 to 25 inches of rainfall in isolated areas of Hawaii Island. Know that rain events of this magnitude can affect areas that do not usually flood.

Due to the Flood Watch, conditions are favorable for flash flooding and the following are in effect:

All Residents in flood prone areas are asked to remain alert for flooding conditions.

Be prepared for sudden road closures, possible landslides, downed trees, and utility disruptions.

Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle or on foot. Turn around don’t drown.

If lightning threatens your area, the safest place to be is indoors.

Due to the possible severity of weather forecast for today, Civil Defense encourages all non-essential outdoor activity and travel be suspended until conditions improve.

A Wind Advisory for Hawaii Island remains in effect through Monday for winds from the southerly direction up to 50mph. Winds this strong can bring down trees and cause road closures and utility disruptions. Secure outdoor items before the winds begin.

A High Surf Warning for west and north facing shores of Hawaii Island continues through Monday for surf up to 30 feet. Surf of this size is extremely life threatening and may cause damage to boats and shoreline property.

Due to the High Surf Warnings all beach parks are closed today.

The National Weather Service Blizzard Warning continues for the summits of Hawaii Island through today and the High Wind Warning for the summits through Monday. Know that summit roads are closed to the public at this time.

You will be informed of changes in conditions that may affect your safety.

Catastrophic Flooding Event Forecast for Hawai’i Island

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