KAILUA-KONA — There’s still a possibility of thunderstorms over West Hawaii today with showers likely through tonight, according to the National Weather Service.
A flash flood watch also remains in effect through the afternoon for all islands.
A watch means conditions could develop leading to flash flooding. In the event a warning is issued or heavy rain observed, people should move to higher ground and avoid crossing fast-flowing or rising water in a vehicle or on foot.
The weather is the result of a strong trough in the upper atmosphere expected to continue bringing a chance of very heavy rain and possible thunderstorms, creating a high potential for flash flooding.
Forecasters said showers are likely with a possible thunderstorm, which could create gusty winds and lightning.
New rainfall isn’t expected to exceed a tenth of an inch, although higher amounts are possible in thunderstorms.
A south wind is expected at about 5 to 7 mph before becoming light and variable in the afternoon.
Isolated showers are expected throughout Thursday, with sunny and mostly clear skies through the weekend.
Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has a winter storm warning for the island’s summits until 6 p.m. today.
Heavy snow was expected with possible damage to trees and power lines and additional snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches, with localized amounts up to 8 inches.
Strong winds are also possible.
The Maunakea Visitor Information Station reported Tuesday night a temperature of 16.8 degrees. The access road was closed and star-gazing events for the evening were canceled because of the weather.