Hawaii Faces ‘Disaster Floods’ Due to Storms

The Hawaiian Islands could suffer “catastrophic flooding” from a system of storms lasting through Tuesday (7), according to the Honolulu National Weather Service (NWS).

A total rainfall of 10 to 15 inches (from about 25 to 38 cm) is predicted, with isolated areas where it can reach 20 to 25 (from 50 to 63 cm), the NWS said.

Flood warnings were issued for all islands of Maui and Molokai on Sunday (5) by the NWS, along with the eastern half of the Big Island.

Landslides are to be expected and, in some cases, roads may be closed due to flooding, potentially isolating communities.

“Events with rainfall of this magnitude can cause catastrophic flooding and affect areas that normally do not flood. Low spots on roads will become dangerous and impassable due to heavy runoff. Debris in streams can clog bridges and manholes, resulting in dangerous flooding,” according to the NWS.

“Numerous landslides are expected in areas with steep terrain. Urban areas, especially on Oahu, can experience severe flooding,” warned the NWS. “Isolated highways such as Belt in Kau District on Big Island and Piilani in Maui can be closed in one or more locations, resulting in long detours or even isolation of communities.”

Public schools in Maui County, Hawaii, are closed on Monday due to potential flooding.

“Parts of Maui County are already experiencing flash floods and power outages, causing unsafe conditions,” Hawaii public schools said on Sunday night.

Blizzard warnings remained in effect over the weekend for the mountain tops of Ilha Grande, where high winds and winter weather temporarily closed access to the peak of Mauna Loa last week.

Translated text. Read the original in English.