Kauai residents urged to stay off roads during flash flood warning
A flash flood warning for Kauai has been extended until 8:30 p.m., while a flood advisory for the Big Island is in effect until 9:15 p.m.
At 5:11 p.m., the National Weather Service reported a decrease in rain rates over Kauai; however, water levels are still running high at most of the rivers and streams on the island.
“Hanalei River continues to flow out of its banks and Kuhio Highway is still inundated from Hanalei Bridge to Hanalei town. Emergency management also reports flooding problems continue in many different areas around Kauai,” forecasters said.
The voluntary evacuation that was started earlier for residents along Waihohonou Road, Wailaau Road, and Aloha Place near Koloa has been cancelled. Stream water has since receded and residents can return to their homes.
The American Red Cross shelters that were opened at Kalaheo Neighborhood Center and Kauai Christian Fellowship have also closed.
Hanalei Elementary School and the satellite school at the Hanalei Colony Resort will be closed Wednesday, the Hawaii Department of Education said in a tweet this afternoon. Bus service won’t be available for students residing in Hanalei, Wainiha and Haena who attend Kapaa Middle and High schools.
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On the Big Island, heavy rainfall was reported near Waikoloa Village, falling at a rate of half an inch per hour.
Locations in the advisory include but are not limited to Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Paauilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidlands Estates, Kukuihaele, Hawi, Pepeekeo, Keaau, Kamuela, Kawaihae and Honokaa.