What you need to know about the Kona storm Friday on Kaua‘i

Editor’s note: This page will be continuously updated throughout the day.

According to the National Weather Service, a powerful Kona storm northwest of the Hawaiian Islands is expected to bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to Kauaʻi through the weekend.

Periods of heavy rain may lead to significant flash flooding, particularly as already saturated ground increases runoff even during steady rainfall, according to a news release from Kaua‘i County.

“Repeated bands of showers and thunderstorms are expected, with some storms potentially becoming strong to severe from Friday through Saturday and capable of producing damaging wind gusts of 50 to 70 mph,” the release stated. “The strongest winds are expected along north- and east-facing mountain areas and could lead to downed trees, blocked roadways, and power outages.”

Current weather advisories

Flood advisory: In effect until 2 p.m.

Flood watch: In effect until 6 p.m. Saturday (March 14).

High wind warning: In effect until 6 p.m. on March 15.

Road closures

• Kūhiō Highway, near mile marker 1 and Wilcox Medical Center, is partially blocked by debris, per the Hawai’i Department of Transportation. Crews are on scene.

• Ho’one Road and Kuai Road in Poʻipū has been closed due to flooding.

Pe‘e Road at its intersection with Poʻipū Road is open through Monday. The roadway had previously been closed due to construction.

First responders are closely monitoring Wailua River and are on scene, as river levels have risen overnight. 

Water levels are also elevated by Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge. Officials are closely monitoring that area and note that this roadway may be closed with little or no advance notice, particularly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. 

County and state closures

• No refuge areas have been opened at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.

• Public and charter schools are closed.

• All Kaua‘i County offices, facilities, and services except for essential workers are also closed.

• The State of Hawai’i has also closed all facilities and services on Kaua’i.

• The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed Polihale State Park and Hā‘ena State Park as well as all parking lots within Koke‘e State Park until further notice. Overnight camping at Koke‘e State Park has also been suspended until further notice.

Stay up-to-date on weather by visiting https://kauainownews.com/weather/.

The County has received reports of price gouging during this weather event.

“Price gouging during a state of emergency is prohibited,” the county released stated. “… Whenever a state of emergency is declared by the governor or the mayor, it is unlawful for any business to increase the price of any commodity in the area that is subject to the emergency proclamation or severe weather warning.”