Flooded roads lead to two car rescues in Lawaʻi on Kauaʻi

At around 2:25 p.m. on Wednesday, a vehicle got trapped in “raging flood waters” at Poeleele Stream near Kua road in Lawa’i during heavy rains on Kauaʻi.

First responders report flood water is rising rapidly and flowing through the vehicle.

Fire crews are attempting a quick extrication before the vehicle, reported as a small sedan, is washed downstream. A landing zone for a rescue helicopter is being prepared. Bystanders are attempting a rescue.

The call for help came in to 911 about 2:25 p.m., just as rescue crews were clearing the scene of another vehicle stuck in flood waters on Lawaʻi Road, about 2 miles away.

Heavy rain already had inundated Lawaʻi Road near Spouting horn, flooding the road. At about 1:40 p.m., after an hour of heavy rain, a report came in via 911 that a car was reported stalled in rising flood waters in front of Allerton Gardens.

Two female occupants inside reported that water was entering the vehicle through the bottom of the doors and rising rapidly. Initial reports from rescuers on scene indicate the occupants are uninjured, and have been safely removed from the vehicle.

Fire crews are reporting that police vehicles are not able to cross the flooded area at this time, and they are currently holding traffic on both sides of Lawa’i Road to prevent more vehicles from getting stuck.

A flash flood warning is in effect for Kauaʻi until 5:30 p.m., although the time could change depending on conditions.