Flash Flood Warning Extended for Hawaii Island

Heavy rain continues to impact East and Southeast Hawaii Island, prompting extension of warning until 6:45 pm HST.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:46am

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The National Weather Service in Honolulu has extended a Flash Flood Warning for the Island of Hawaii through 6:45 p.m. HST. Radar shows heavy rain continuing across portions of East and Southeast Hawaii Island, with the most intense rainfall occurring in the Kau District between Kawa Flats and Volcano, including areas along Mamalahoa Highway. Emergency management officials report water flowing over Mamalahoa Highway near Paʻauʻau Gulch in Pāhala, where stream levels remain high.

Why it matters

Flash flooding can be life-threatening, and the heavy rain is expected to produce significant flooding in streams, rivers, drainage areas, roads, properties, and other low-lying locations across East and Southeast Hawaii Island. Multiple public road closures are possible, along with the risk of landslides in steep terrain.

The details

As of 3:28 p.m., radar showed heavy rain continuing across portions of East and Southeast Hawaii Island, with rainfall rates estimated at 2 to 4 inches per hour. The Hawaii Police Department has reported that HWY 11 is closed in the Ka`u District near Pahala between mile markers 50 and 54 due to flood waters on the roadway.

  • The Flash Flood Warning has been extended through 6:45 p.m. HST on March 24, 2026.
  • The heavy rain began impacting the area around 3:28 p.m. HST on March 24, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service in Honolulu

The National Weather Service office responsible for issuing weather warnings and forecasts for the state of Hawaii.

Hawaii Police Department

The law enforcement agency responsible for responding to emergencies and enforcing laws on the island of Hawaii.

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What’s next

Residents are urged to stay away from streams, rivers, drainage ditches, and culverts, even if they appear dry, as heavy rainfall can quickly cause dangerous flooding. The Hawaii Police Department will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any additional road closures.

The takeaway

This Flash Flood Warning highlights the importance of heeding weather alerts and being prepared for the potential of severe weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flash flooding, which can pose a significant threat to public safety in Hawaii.