The Hawaiian Islands are currently under a statewide Flood Watch, with the National Weather Service warning of scattered showers and heavy rain throughout the day. An upper-level low moving over the islands is contributing to the unstable weather, causing significant rainfall in regions like eastern Maui, according to the National Weather Service.
Radar estimates indicate that 6 to 12 inches of rain have fallen in eastern Maui in the last 36 hours, especially below Hanawi and Hana Reserves. Oahu and Maui are also at risk due to saturated ground, meaning even light rain could cause flooding. As stated by the National Weather Service, "the presence of the upper low within this saturated column (unseasonably high near 2.00 inch precipitable waters) will keep this mention of isolated thunder and localized heavy rain in place."
A more stable trade wind pattern is forecast to begin on Monday, bringing some relief and focusing rainfall over windward mountain slopes. However, intense rain and possible thunder could occur in sheltered areas like the Kona slopes of the Big Island if sunlight breaks through. Showers are still expected later in the week, particularly on Thursday and Friday. A Flood Watch is in effect for areas such as Niihau, Kauai Leeward, and North Big Island, along with a Small Craft Advisory until 6 PM HST Monday for waters around Maui County and the Big Island, as reported by the National Weather Service.
