Maui Soaked as Islandwide Flood Alert Holds Residents on Edge Until 9 p.m.

Heavy rain and rising streams prompt warnings to avoid flood-prone areas on the Valley Isle.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A Flood Advisory was in effect for the island of Maui on February 21, with officials warning of ponding, rising streams, and the potential for low-water crossings and poorly drained streets to become impassable. Residents and visitors were urged to avoid flood-prone areas as bands of heavy rain swept across the island, with the advisory set to expire at 9 p.m. HST.

Why it matters

Maui is no stranger to heavy rainfall and flooding, and this event highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and heeding official warnings to protect public safety. The island's geography and infrastructure can make it vulnerable to flash flooding, underscoring the need for residents and visitors to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.

The details

On February 21, a Flood Advisory was issued for the entire island of Maui as a slow-moving upper-level trough funneled deep moisture into the Hawaiian islands. The most intense downpours hit Kauai and parts of Oahu, but Maui still experienced scattered heavy bands of rain capable of causing nuisance flooding along windward slopes and upcountry roads. Officials warned of ponding, rising stream levels, and the potential for low-water crossings and poorly drained streets to become impassable, urging residents and visitors to avoid flood-prone areas.

  • The Flood Advisory was in effect until 9 p.m. HST on February 21.
  • The heavy rain and flooding conditions were part of a broader weather pattern affecting the Hawaiian islands that day.

The players

Hawaii Emergency Management Agency

The state agency responsible for coordinating emergency preparedness and response efforts in Hawaii.

National Weather Service in Honolulu

The local office of the National Weather Service that provides weather forecasts and warnings for the Hawaiian islands.

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What they’re saying

“The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency also reminded the public that its social feeds 'are not monitored 24/7' and stressed that anyone in immediate danger should 'call 9‑1‑1'.”

— Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (hoodline.com)

What’s next

The National Weather Service in Honolulu will continue to monitor the weather situation and provide updated hazard information as the conditions evolve.

The takeaway

This flood event on Maui underscores the importance of heeding official warnings and taking appropriate precautions during heavy rainfall, as the island's geography and infrastructure can make it vulnerable to flash flooding. Residents and visitors should stay informed, avoid flood-prone areas, and never attempt to drive through standing water, no matter how shallow it appears.