Flash flood warning for Maui and Hawaii Island lifted as rain eases

A flash flood warning covering Maui and Hawaii Island was allowed to expire on Thursday, after the National Weather Service reported that no watches, warnings or advisories were in effect across the state as of 7:18 p.m. Heavy rain had prompted the warning, and forecasters said conditions were improving. Hawaii News Now reported that the warning had been posted mainly for windward portions of Hawaii Island, where moisture had lingered over the eastern part of the state.

Road closures and evacuation site in Hāna

Conditions were more severe in East Maui earlier in the week. A flash flood warning for East Maui was canceled after heavy rainfall diminished in that area, but flooding had already disrupted travel in the Hāna district. Maui Police Department roadway alerts issued around 8 p.m. on October 28 said Pi'ilani Highway at Mile Marker 51 was closed in both directions because of high water. The stretch lies between Kaihalulu and Koki beach parks. Uakea Road and Keanini Drive in Hāna town were also closed due to flooding.

County of Maui emergency officials opened a Temporary Evacuation Site at Helene Hall, 174 Keawa Place, in Hāna at 9:45 p.m. that day. The site is a gathering area that will stay open until the threat of flooding passes. It does not have the supplies of a regular shelter, so residents were advised to bring their own essentials. Pets are permitted only in crates or cages. If needed, the site can be converted into a shelter offering cots, food and water.

Hana High and Elementary School was closed on Thursday because of heavy rain and road closures, Hawaii News Now reported.

Outlook for Friday and Halloween

Forecasters said improving conditions and drier air had already reached Kauai and Oahu. Some improvement was also expected overnight for Maui County and Hawaii Island, but localized heavy rain could still fall into Friday over windward East Maui and windward Hawaii Island. The National Weather Service had posted a statewide Flood Watch through the night of October 28, and warned that rainfall and flooding were possible after it expired.

Hawaii News Now said conditions should become more stable statewide by Friday afternoon. Weather for Halloween trick-or-treating could still be wet, with scattered showers expected mainly in windward and mauka areas of the eastern end of the state. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser also reported that Hawaii can expect better weather for Halloween as the rains ease.

What we know so far

The flash flood warning has ended for Maui and Hawaii Island, but the threat has not fully passed in East Maui and windward Hawaii Island. Residents in Hāna should check Maui County road closure notices before traveling, and the First Alert Weather Team has said it will keep monitoring conditions and report any changes. Officials have not provided a final assessment of rainfall totals or damage in the reports available so far.