Officials with the County of Kaua‘i are urging residents to remain vigilant as severe weather continues to impact the island on Thursday afternoon.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Kaua‘i due to ongoing heavy rainfall. The warning could be extended, canceled or updated as conditions change.
A flash flood warning indicates that flooding is imminent or already occurring in streams, roadways, and low-lying areas. Authorities warn the public not to attempt to cross fast-moving or rising waters, whether on foot or in a vehicle.
The flood advisory will remain in effect until 7:15 p.m. for the island.
According to the National Weather Service, excessive rainfall is causing minor flooding on roads, in poor drainage areas, and in streams. River and stream levels are elevated, with notable rises reported at the Wainiha River gauge along Kaua‘i’s north shore.
Radar and rain gauges recorded rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour as of about 4:05 p.m., further heightening the flood risk.
In addition, a brown water advisory has been issued for all of Kaua‘i.
The Hawai‘i Department of Health is advising beachgoers to avoid entering waters that appear brown or murky, particularly after storms or periods of heavy rain. Runoff during these conditions can carry elevated levels of pollutants into nearshore waters.
Health officials recommend staying out of affected ocean waters for 48 to 72 hours after rainfall ends and conditions return to normal.
The department also warns the public to avoid swimming, wading, or drinking from freshwater streams and ponds due to the risk of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria.
