Update: Kūhiō Highway closed near Hanalei Bridge due to flooding

Updated at 9:28 p.m. on Jan. 30: The National Weather Service has canceled the Flash Flood Warning for Kaua‘i. However, Kūhiō Highway, near the vicinity of the Hanalei Bridge, remains closed due to elevated water levels, according to Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch.

Updated at 8:39 p.m. on Jan. 30: A portion of Hauaala Road near the ford crossing also known as Keapana Cement Bridge is now open and safe to cross, according to the Department of Public Works Roads Division.

Updated at 8:21 p.m. on Jan. 30: The National Weather Service has extended the Flash Flood Warning for Kaua‘i through 10:30 p.m.

Updated at 6:44 p.m. on Jan. 30: Due to flooding, a portion of Hauaala Road near the ford crossing also known as Keapana Cement Bridge is closed until further notice. “Road closed” signs have been posted by the Department of Public Works Roads Division.

Kūhiō Highway, near the vicinity of the Hanalei Bridge, remains closed due to flooding, according to Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch.

Updated at 5:57 p.m. on Jan. 30: Kūhiō Highway, near the vicinity of the Hanalei Bridge, is closed due to flooding, according to Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch. Updates will be given when more information is possible.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Kaua‘i, due to heavy rains occurring over the island. The warning may be extended, dropped or modified as conditions develop.

The warning is in place till 8:15 p.m. A flood watch remains in effect till midnight.

A Flash Flood Warning means flash flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low-lying areas. Do not cross fast-flowing or rising water in your vehicle or on foot.

At 5:14 p.m., radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain falling over northern Kaua‘i. 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 p.m.

No road closures have yet been reported at this time. Stay tuned to local media for updates on road closures.

Ponding, low visibility and other hazardous driving conditions are expected. If you must drive, do so with extreme caution.

For updates on road conditions and closures, please call 808-241-1725. Do not call Kaua‘i police 911 unless you have an emergency.

For weather updates call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001, or visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.

To sign up for Wireless Emergency Notification System, the county’s emergency notification service, go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov and click on “Sign up for Emergency Notifications.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.