Weekend storm damages downtown business, no other issues reported

KAILUA-KONA — While no widespread damage was connected to this weekend’s bursts of rain and wind, one business owner on Alii Drive spent Monday morning repairing an awning ripped off the roof of his establishment during the strong gusts.

Eric von Platen Luder, owner of On The Rocks, said the wind hit hard Sunday afternoon.

“It was a like a crazy cyclone-like wind that surrounded us,” he said. “It broke everything.”

The awning covered the kitchen area. Von Platen Luder said it was ripped from the bolts it was attached to. It then blew into the parking lot and damaged a couple of cars.

Outdoor umbrellas meant to withstand strong winds were also damaged, the owner said.

On The Rocks closed Sunday. Von Platen Luder was hopeful the restaurant would be open for dinner on Monday.

Kevin Kodama, hydrologist with the National Weather Service, said at the most an inch and half of rain fell between Sunday and Monday.

The storm passing through Hawaii Island was weakening and conditions were steadily improving throughout the day Monday.

A winter storm warning was issued through 6 p.m. on Monday for Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Kodama said snow and icy conditions would be expected in the mountains.

The potential for flash flooding mainly effected the southeast side of the island. However, Kodama said a flash flood watch was issued for the entire island until 6 p.m. Monday.

Hawaii Police Department said no major incidents connected with the storm over weekend were reported. The Hawaii Fire Department reported there were isolated incidents of power outages.

Kodama said the weather should clear up by Wednesday.