The National Weather Service of Honolulu has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Kauai until 8:15 p.m. The warning stated that "At 514 PM HST, radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain falling over northern Kauai. Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Stream gages have reported significant rises in the Hanalei River and the Wainiha River. Flooding and closure of Kuhio Highway near Hanalei is likely around 6 PM HST."
Earlier Monday, Kauai County had reopened both lanes of Kuhio Highway near Hanalei Bridge.
The National Weather Service has downgraded the Flash Flood Warning to a Flash Flood Watch for Kauai in effect until 6 p.m. Monday.
Kauai County reports Kuhio Hwy. near Hanalei Bridge is now open to a single lane.
The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for the island of Kauai at 2:38 a.m. Monday morning to last until 5:45 p.m. due to heavy rains. As conditions develop, the warning may be extended, dropped or modified.
A Flash Flood Warning means flash flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low-lying areas. The public is advised to not cross fast-flowing or rising water, whether by foot or vehicle. Ponding, low visibility and other hazardous driving conditions are expected. Drive with extreme caution.
At 4:41 a.m., Kuhio Highway near the vicinity of Hanalei Bridge was closed. Because of the closure, officials from the Hawaii Department of Education announced Hanalei Elementary School will be closed Monday. COVID testing at the Hanalei Neighborhood Center will also be closed on Monday.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Kalalau Trail because of high stream levels.
Kauai County’s Department of Water has issued a water conservation request for the north shore from Hanalei to Haena until further notice due to electrical power outages and severe weather in the area. Customers are advised to limit water usage to cooking, drinking or sanitation in order to prevent a full water service outage. Additional measures include turning off appliances and fixtures that automatically draw water such as ice machines and irrigation systems.
On Molokai, the Hawaii Department of Education has closed its five public school on Monday because of heavy rain and flooding in portions of the island. The closures do not apply to charter schools or other educational institutions outside of HIDOE’s jurisdiction.
Call 808-241-1725 for updates on Kauai road conditions and closures. The public is advised to not call Kauai police 911 unless there is an emergency.
Weather updates are available at the National Weather Service website or by calling the automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency reminds Hawaii residents to document and take pictures of damages from flooding. It’s needed for insurance and could help your community to qualify for assistance.
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The original story has been updated information on a flash flood warning for Kauai County through 8:15 p.m. (Jan. 30, 2023)
