Heavy rainfall prompts brown water advisory

KAILUA-KONA — Heavy rainfall has prompted the Department of Health to issue a brown water advisory for Hawaii Island.

DOH officials advise the public to stay out of flood waters and storm water runoff because of possible overflowing cesspools, sewer manholes, pesticides, animal fecal matter, dead animals, pathogens, chemicals and associated flood debris. The advisory covers all of Hawaii Island, although state officials said not all coastal areas may be impacted.

The department recommends people do not enter water if it is brown and to practice good hygiene. People should also follow up with their primary care physician if they have any health concerns.

A flash flood warning remains in effect for the Big Island until 2:15 p.m. today. At 11 a.m., forecasters said radar showed heavy rainfall over the Kona slopes, Ka’u, Puna and South Hilo districts. Peak rain rates were in the range of 1-2 inches per hour.