Flood Advisory Issued for Parts of Hawaii's Hilo and Puna

Heavy rainfall expected to cause flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:37am

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The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for portions of North and South Hilo as well as Puna on the Big Island of Hawaii due to heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas and streams. The advisory is in effect until 6:30 p.m. local time on March 21, 2026.

Why it matters

Flooding can pose a serious threat to public safety, damage property, and disrupt transportation and other critical infrastructure. This advisory allows residents and visitors in the affected areas to take precautions and avoid hazardous conditions.

The details

Radar indicated that heavy rain was falling at a rate of up to 1 inch per hour over the advisory area, which includes the towns of Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Papaikou, Pepeekeo, Honomu, Hakalau, Mountain View, Ninole, Keaau, Glenwood, Laupahoehoe, Hawaiian Acres, Orchidland Estates, Ookala, Wainaku, Paukaa, Kurtistown, Fern Acres, Ainaloa, and Hawaiian Beaches.

  • The flood advisory is in effect until 6:30 p.m. on March 21, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related advisories, watches, and warnings.

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What’s next

Residents and visitors in the affected areas should avoid streams, drainage ditches, and low-lying areas prone to flooding.

The takeaway

This flood advisory highlights the importance of being prepared for severe weather events and heeding official warnings to ensure public safety in Hawaii's Hilo and Puna regions.