Flash flood warning issued for Kauai as heavy showers soak island

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Kauai this afternoon as heavy rain falls over much of the island.

“At 11:45 a.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain falling over the eastern slopes of Mount Waialeale with additional heavy rain moving into the leeward side of the island,” the warning said. “Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 3 inches per hour. A rapid rise was also observed at the Hanalei River gauge upstream of Hanalei Town. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly, especially near the Hanalei Bridge on the Kuhio Highway.”

The warning is in effect until 2:45 p.m.

Forecasters said the public should expect flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

They said an approaching disturbance may trigger a few heavy showers through this afternoon and tonight, mainly over Kauai and Oahu.

“The tail end of a front will move down the island chain late Sunday through Monday, bringing breezy northeasterly trades and drier air in its wake,” forecasters said. “Breezy easterly trades will bring periods of windward and mauka showers through the rest of the week.”