Heavy rainfall in parts of South Kohala, North Kona prompts flood advisory

KAILUA-KONA — Heavy showers in parts South Kohala and North Kona have prompted a flood advisory for the area.

At 2:20 p.m. Friday, radar indicated heavy showers were falling at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour over leeward areas of the Big Island, from Waimea to Puuanahulu, and along Daniel K. Inouye, west of Pohakuloa Training Area, according to forecasters at the Honolulu-based National Weather Service.

The advisory remains in effect until 5:15 p.m. as forecasters expect the heavy showers forecast to last through the afternoon.

Forecasters caution people to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas prone to flooding.Rainfall and runoff will also cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action. Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle, or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.