Flood watch issued for Kauaʻi and Niʻihau through Saturday morning

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, warning residents and visitors to prepare for the possibility of flash flooding from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.

Forecasters say heavy rainfall, fueled by moisture moving over the state from both the east and west, along with an upper-level disturbance, could lead to rapid runoff and localized flooding. 

Kauaʻi is expected to be the hardest hit, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

The flood watch goes into effect at 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 20 and will remain in effect until 6 a.m. on Feb. 21. Residents are urged to monitor updates and be ready to take action if flash flood warnings are issued.

Officials advise avoiding driving through flooded streets, keeping children and pets away from fast-moving water, and staying informed through local weather updates. Isolated thunderstorms are also possible over the western end of the state during this period.

The National Weather Service cautioned that conditions may deteriorate quickly and that residents should stay alert for potential emergency instructions.

To sign up for the county’s emergency notification service, the Wireless Emergency Notification System, visit the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency website.