The National Weather Service is predicting continued stormy weather through at least Christmas Eve as a volatile weather system moves over the state.
Forecasters said a "potent disturbance aloft" could intensify thunderstorm activity Tuesday, and the threat of heavy rainfall and dangerous winter weather on the summits of the Big Island will continue through Wednesday.
In addition, the windward and northern areas of the smaller islands are expected to receive continued rainfall as moisture from a slow-moving front stalls near Maui.
The wintry weather has prompted the weather service to issue several watches, warnings and advisories.
The entire state is under a flash-flood watch effective through 6 p.m. Wednesday.
Forecasters said rainfall amounts of 3 inches per hour are possible. Excessive runoff might also produce rockslides and mudslides in steep terrain, and fast-moving water could create life-threatening situations.
On Monday a cold front moving over the western half of the state prompted flood advisories for Oahu and Kauai, which were lifted as the rain eased.
More than 10 inches of rain fell on the Kilohana area of Kauai during the 24-hour period ending at 5:45 p.m. Monday.
Over the 12-hour period also ending at 5:45 p.m., several areas of Oahu experienced high-volume rain, including Makaha Stream (5.57 inches), Niu Valley (4.64) and Manoa (4.24).
Heavy rain in the afternoon caused a stream on the Manana Trail in Pearl City to swell, stranding a party of six hikers ages 8 to 18.
Honolulu Fire Department rescue personnel helped the hikers safely off the trail, according to spokesman Capt. David Jenkins.
Meanwhile, a blizzard watch will be in effect for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa from Tuesday morning through Wednesday afternoon.
According to the weather service, low pressure developing near the state could spread a band of deep moisture and layered clouds over the Big Island, resulting in heavy snow in the summit areas.
A high-wind warning is already in effect for Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa through 6 a.m. Thursday. Forecasters predict gusts from 70 to 95 mph by Tuesday evening.
Forecasters warn that travel to the summits should be avoided until conditions improve.
Also, a high-surf warning is in effect for the north and west shores of Kauai, Oahu, Niihau and Molokai; the north shore of Maui; and the west shore of the Big Island through 6 a.m. Tuesday.
Wave heights of 20 to 25 feet are expected along affected areas of Kauai, Oahu, Niihau and Molokai.
