The second kona low to strike Hawaiʻi in a week is progressing down the island chain. Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau provided an update about weather conditions and other information needed for travelers — whether they’re tripping between the islands or from across the ocean.
Kauaʻi and Oʻahu are seeing improving conditions, while Maui County continued to experience heavy rain and flash flooding throughout Saturday, March 21.
Hawaiʻi Island can expect its heaviest rainfall today, March 22.
Because grounds remain saturated from last week’s powerful kona low, flash flooding is possible statewide even during moderate rainfall.
Click here for island-specific weather conditions and closures. Visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website for the latest weather updates.
Travel impact by island
- Hawaiʻi Island: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is partially reopened, with access restored to the Kīlauea summit area and Chain of Craters Road. Work continues to clear and repair remaining areas impacted by last week’s storm and tephra fallout from the recent episode of the ongoing episodic summit eruption.
- Kaua‘i: The flood watch was canceled and conditions are improving.
- Oʻahu: Visitors should avoid the North Shore until further notice because of excessive flooding. The Polynesian Cultural Center remains closed while Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve reopened with select activities available.
- Maui: Heavy rain and flash flooding were ongoing Saturday. Visitors should avoid Lahaina until further notice. Access in East Maui remains limited to local traffic. The Road to Hāna is not accessible to visitors. Both districts of Haleakalā National Park, Waiʻānapanapa State Park and ʻĪao Valley State Monument remain closed. Visitors in these areas should monitor conditions closely and follow guidance from local officials.
- Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i: Flights to both islands were canceled or on hold. Reconfirm your flight with your airline.
Guidance for travelers in Hawaiʻi
- Flash flooding is possible even during moderate rainfall because of saturated grounds. Never drive through flowing or rising water, including streams and drainage ditches that might appear dry.
- Brown water advisories are in effect for Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui and parts of Hawai‘i Island. Travelers should wait 48 to 72 hours after rain stops before swimming, particularly where ocean water appears brown or murky.
- Some state parks and facilities remain temporarily closed while safety assessments and cleanup continue. Visit the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks website for the latest reopening information.
- There are no weather-related closures of airport facilities. Allow extra time at the airport — at least 3 hours for trans-Pacific flights and 90 minutes for interisland.
Guidance for travelers with upcoming trips
There is no reason to cancel or postpone upcoming travel to Hawaiʻi. The state remains safe and welcoming, and conditions are expected to improve early next week.
Travelers are encouraged to:
- Ensure their airline has a current mobile number on file and enable app and SMS notifications.
- Confirm flight status directly with their airline before departing for the airport. Airlines are the best source of real-time information on delays and changes.
Other resources
- Island-specific conditions and closures: Click here.
- National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website: Click here.
- GoHawaii app: Turn on notifications for real-time push alerts.
- Ask Hawai‘i Tourism Authority: Visit the website or call toll free 1-800-GOHAWAII (1-800-464-2924).
