Hawaiʻi County Prepares Residents, Visitors for Storm Impacts

Heavy rain, flooding, and volcanic activity expected this week

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:00am

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A vast, majestic landscape painting depicting a stormy sky over the lush, tropical forests of Hawaiʻi Island, with the looming presence of Kīlauea volcano in the distance. The scene uses deep, atmospheric perspective and dramatic backlighting to capture the mood of the impending heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.As Hawaiʻi Island braces for another round of severe weather, the island's natural beauty and the power of its volcanic landscape serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness.Kilauea Today

Hawaiʻi County officials are urging residents and visitors to prepare for a storm system arriving this week that could bring heavy rainfall, flooding, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the entire state, with the Puna, Kaʻū, and Kona districts expected to see the highest rainfall amounts. Officials are also monitoring Kīlauea volcano for a potential eruption that could produce volcanic tephra, including ash and Pele's hair, that could impact nearby communities.

Why it matters

Hawaiʻi County has faced a series of damaging storms in recent years, and officials are taking proactive steps to reduce risks and protect the public. The combination of heavy rain, flooding, and volcanic activity poses significant threats to both residents and visitors, making preparedness efforts crucial.

The details

The storm system is forecast to produce periods of moderate to heavy rainfall with possible thunderstorms from Wednesday morning through Friday afternoon. Peak rainfall is expected from Wednesday night through Friday, with the Puna and Kaʻū districts potentially seeing the highest amounts. Southerly winds of 30 to 40 mph are also expected, with peak wind impacts on Thursday and Friday. Officials are monitoring Kīlauea volcano for a potential eruption that could send volcanic tephra towards nearby communities, depending on wind conditions.

  • The Flood Watch is in effect from Wednesday morning through Friday afternoon.
  • Peak rainfall is forecast from Wednesday night through Friday.
  • Southerly winds of 30 to 40 mph are expected, with peak impacts on Thursday and Friday.
  • Kīlauea volcano is expected to erupt between today and April 15.

The players

Hawaiʻi County

The local government of the island of Hawaiʻi, responsible for coordinating emergency preparedness and response efforts.

National Weather Service (NWS)

The federal agency that issued the Flood Watch for the entire state of Hawaiʻi due to the incoming storm system.

U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

The federal agency monitoring Kīlauea volcano and providing forecasts for potential eruptions.

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What they’re saying

“Locally heavy downpours can produce rapidly rising floodwaters, especially on ground still wet from recent damaging storms.”

— Hawaiʻi County Officials

“Depending on wind conditions, communities near and downwind of Kīlauea could experience volcanic tephra, including ash and Pele's hair.”

— Hawaiʻi County Officials

What’s next

Officials are closely monitoring the storm system and Kīlauea volcano, and will provide updates on any changes to the forecast or potential impacts. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities.

The takeaway

The combination of heavy rain, flooding, and potential volcanic activity in Hawaiʻi County this week highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for residents and visitors to heed the warnings of local officials. By working together, the community can reduce risks and stay safe during these challenging weather conditions.