A powerful Kona storm is moving east across the islands, bringing possible flooding, windy conditions and thunderstorms through the weekend.
A flash flood warning declared for the entire island of Oʻahu has been extended until at least 11:45 a.m. Thursday.
Emergency officials report road closures in the North Shore area, as well as ponding on roads on the windward and town sides of Oʻahu.
The National Weather Service said, "The heavy rain has ended, but area streams remain elevated and impacts continue to be observed. Additional heavy rain is expected to move into the area within the next few hours."
Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui Nui and Hawaiʻi Island are also still under a flood watch through Saturday, though conditions could change. A flood watch is not the same thing as a flood warning. A warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
On the North Shore of Oʻahu, Haleʻiwa Elementary and Waialua High & Intermediate schools closed Thursday, March 12, due to flooding.
On Molokaʻi, the high and middle schools also closed Thursday, as did Kaunakakai, Kilohana and Maunaloa elementary schools.
All other Hawaiʻi public schools are scheduled to open.
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NWS said people should expect a combination of flash flooding, damaging winds, snow and ice over the highest Big Island summits, and strong to severe thunderstorms over the next few days. The Kona storm is forecast to begin to lift Monday.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed many state parks and trails due to the expected rainfall. All camping permits through next week have been canceled, and none will be issued for the rest of the week.
Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and Maui Nui residents can track Hawaiian Electric power outages here. Kauaʻi residents can track KIUC outages here.
State officials are reminding residents to review their insurance policies — and to try to mitigate potential damages to their homes by keeping drains open and cleaning yards to keep water flowing.
The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs said homeowners and renters should double-check what their insurance covers; standard coverage doesn’t necessarily include flood damage.
Taking photos and videos of furniture, appliances, electronics and valuables can also help speed up the claims process.
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