Lihue, Hawaii – Flooding could develop quickly across Kauai and Niihau through the weekend as repeated rounds of heavy rain move over the islands, raising the risk of road closures and landslides.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Sunday afternoon for all of Kauai and Niihau. A strengthening kona low west of the islands is pulling deep tropical moisture into the region, increasing the potential for excessive rainfall.
The heaviest rain is expected from Friday night through Saturday, with periods of intense downpours likely across the Kauai North Shore, Hanalei, Kapaa, and Lihue. Low-lying roads and flood-prone areas, including sections of Kuhio Highway and Kaumualii Highway, could become impassable if water levels rise quickly.
Mountainous terrain across the Kauai interior and the Na Pali Coast increases the risk for landslides, especially where soils become saturated. Streams and drainage systems may overflow with little warning, particularly during heavier bursts of rain.
Residents and visitors should avoid driving through flooded roadways and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. Those in flood-prone areas should be ready to move to higher ground if warnings are issued. Outdoor plans, including hiking, should be postponed.
Heavy rain will continue in waves through Sunday afternoon, with additional alerts likely as the kona storm evolves and shifts north early next week.
