By Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a flood advisory for the Big Island until 11:15 p.m. Thursday (Feb 21).

At 8:06 p.m. weather radar showed widespread showers with locallyt heavy rainfall over parts of the Hilo and Puna districts of the Big Island. Additional heavy showers are moving onshore from the East.

Other areas in the advisory include, but are not limited to Waipio Valley, Paauilo, Ookala, Honomu, Honokaa, Hawi and Hakalau.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding. The rainfall and runoff will cause hazardous driving due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action.

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

The advisory could be extended past 11:15 p.m. if the heavy rains persist.