LATEST UPDATE: Flood Warning Prompts Shelter Opening, East Hawaii Parks Closed

UPDATE (12:40 p.m.) – A Flash Flood Warning was issued for parts of Hawaii County until 2:45 p.m. HST. The National Weather Service said that at 11:48 a.m. HST, “heavy rain continues to fall over the windward slopes of the Big Island. Recent rain bands have been affecting the lower elevations and are causing more significant flooding impacts to occur along the Hamakua, Hilo, and Puna areas of the island. Additional rainfall is expected to develop over the windward slopes through the day.”

Forecasters say locations in the warning include but are not limited to Hilo, Paauilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidland Estates, Pepeekeo, Keaau, Kamuela, Honokaa, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Pahoa, Hawaiian Acres, Mountain View, and Glenwood.

(BIVN) – A Flood Advisory was in effect Thursday morning for all of East Hawaii, while a Flash Flood Watch remains posted for the entire Big Island.

According to a Hawaii County Civil Defense message issued at 8:15 a.m. Thursday morning, Hawaii County Public Works Department reports multiple road closures in Hilo due to flooding:

Kamehameha Avenue between Pauahi Street and Ponahawai Street

Pauahi Street between Aupuni Street and Kamehameha Avenue

East Kawailani Street between Ho’onani Street and Ahuna Street, and

Kukila Street in front on Ken’s Towing.

Due to the road closures and heavy rain, civil defense says the following advisories are in effect:

Kamehameha Avenue traffic is now rerouted through Bay Front Highway.

Motorists should expect delays, plan ahead and drive with caution as driving conditions are poor.

Be aware that additional road closures may occur without notice, officials say.