UPDATE at 10:34 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026: The flash flood warning issued for Kaua’i was extended until 1:45 a.m. Friday, April 10, as moderate to heavy rainfall continues to soak the island.
Radar and automated rain gauges indicated at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9, that rain was falling at up to 1 to 2 inches per hour, with streams across the Garden Isle still elevated.
Waimea River and Hanapepe River have steadily risen; Hanalei River remains closed.
National Weather Service in Honolulu reports that additional heavy showers moving through could result in sharp rises in streams and new or worsening flooding.
UPDATE 7:20 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026: Officials continue to urge residents of Kauaʻi to remain cautious as heavy rainfall continues to trigger dangerous flooding conditions across the island.
The National Weather Service extended the flash flood warning for Kauaʻi. Forecasters said the alert could be extended, canceled, or updated as conditions change.
Authorities also warned the public not to attempt to cross fast-moving or rising water, whether on foot or in vehicles, citing the risk of life-threatening conditions.
Flooding also forced the closure of Kūhio Highway near the Hanalei Bridge, where officials said the roadway would remain shut until further notice.
Emergency officials continued to monitor conditions as rain persisted across parts of the island.
Original Post: A flood advisory was issued for all of Kauaʻi on Thursday afternoon due to heavy rainfall, resulting in rising water levels and minor flooding concerns across the island.
The National Weather Service said the advisory remains in effect until 7:15 p.m.
Radar and rain gauges indicated intense showers moving over the island, with rainfall rates of one to three inches per hour reported shortly after 4 p.m. Weather officials said stream levels were elevated, particularly along the Wainiha River on the island’s north shore.
Forecasters warned that minor flooding could occur on roadways, in low-lying and poorly drained areas, and along streams experiencing increased flow.
Residents were urged to avoid streams, drainage ditches, and flood-prone areas as conditions could change rapidly.
