Rain, snow dampen Big Isle; clearer skies ahead
Heavy rain eased up on Maui and Hawaii island Wednesday night, but a flash flood watch remains in effect Hawaii island.
High moisture combining with an area of low pressure over Hawaii island may produce heavy rainfall through the late afternoon, according to forecasters at the National Weather Service.
The flash flood watch is in effect through 6 p.m. today.
“Hikers and campers should pay close attention to the latest forecasts, warnings, and conditions. Stay away from creeks and streams, and strongly consider postponing your trip until better weather returns,” weather officials said in a bulletin.
A winter storm warning is also in effect for Hawaii island summits above 12,000 feet until 6 p.m. today. Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are expected.
“Plan on difficult travel conditions. Expect damage to trees and power lines as well,” the warning said.
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Forecasters expect milder weather ahead as the area of low pressure moves away from the islands tonight through Friday. Locally breezy northeast trades will prevail through the weekend with overnight temperatures in the lower 70s. However, dew points trending as low as the mid-50s will amplify the morning chill.
Meanwhile, a high surf advisory was in effect for north- and east-facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and Hawaii island, and the north shore of Niihau, through 6 p.m. today.
Surf was expected to reach 14 to 18 feet along north shores of Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau. Eastern shores were expected to see surf of 4 to 8 feet. Forecasters warned of strong breaking waves and powerful currents that could make swimming dangerous.