By Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a flood advisory for Hawaii County until 9:15 p.m. Thursday (Oct 17).

At 7:04 p.m. weather radar showed heavy rain near Wood Valley about two miles West of Pahala. This area of heavy rain was nearly stationary. The heavy rain is slowly spreading Southward into Naalehu and surrounding rural areas.

People should stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding. The rainfall and runoff will cause hazardous driving conditions 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.