National Weather Service map

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the Big Island until 8:45 a.m. Tuesday (Dec 23).

At 5:18 a.m. weather radar showed heavy rain over North Hawaii and along the Hamakua Coast. This area of heavy rain was nearly stationary. Other locations in the warning area include, but are not limited to, Kahua Ranch, Waipio Valley, Mahukona and Honokaa. Rain gages in Honokaa show 4.21 inches of rain between 11 p.m. Monday through 5 a.m. Tuesday.

There is a Flash Flood Watch for all Hawaiian Islands until 6 p.m. Wednesday (De 24)

Police reported Akoni Pule Highway (Highway 270), near Keokea Beach Park, was closed due to flooding. They ask motorists to avoid the area.

Campers and hikers should avoid low lying flood prone 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.

This warning may need to be extended beyond 8:45 a.m. if flooding conditions continue.

For links to the latest weather forecasts, reports, radar and satellite imagery visit our Weather Page at hawaii247.com/weather