Kauaʻi is back under the weather spotlight this morning, with a Flood Advisory in effect through 10:45 a.m. HST Thursday, officials said. Residents and visitors are being urged to steer clear of streams, drainage ditches and other low-lying spots that tend to flood, and to call 9-1-1 for emergencies. The alert comes as a Kona low pulls deep tropical moisture over the islands, sending in bands of heavy rain that boost the risk of fast-moving runoff across the Garden Isle.
A Flood Advisory for Kauaʻi is in effect until 10:45 am HST (4/9). Avoid streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding. More info at https://t.co/imrXL9JFAL
— Hawaii EMA (@Hawaii_EMA) April 9, 2026
Advisory details
According to the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency, the advisory covers the entire island of Kauaʻi through 10:45 a.m. HST Thursday. The National Weather Service notes that the advisory calls for "minor flooding on roads, poor drainage areas, and in streams" and may be extended if heavy rain bands hang around. Those products specifically urge people to stay away from drainage ditches and low-lying stream corridors where water can rise fast.
Where risk is highest
Forecast models show the deepest moisture and slow-moving rain bands setting up over parts of Kauaʻi late Thursday into Friday, raising the odds of rapid runoff in valley bottoms and near stream mouths, according to Hawaii News Now. Local reporting and county advisories also flagged brown-water and beach advisories around Nāwiliwili and Kalapaki as runoff turns nearshore water murky, per Kauaʻi Now. County pages outline shelter status and non-emergency contacts as officials keep tabs on roads and infrastructure, including the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency.
Safety steps for residents and visitors
Officials are reminding people to move vehicles to higher ground, tie down or bring in outdoor items, and avoid walking or driving through standing water. The National Weather Service repeats its familiar warning to "Turn Around, Don't Drown" for flooded roads. Keep children and pets away from fast-moving water and obey any posted road closures. If conditions deteriorate or you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
For ongoing updates, check the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency post and the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency website for shelter and road information. Officials also recommend keeping an eye on National Weather Service Honolulu forecasts and county channels for any changes to advisories or potential evacuation guidance.
