Dangerous Kona Low Still Active
The Honolulu Star Advertiser Posted The Following at 3:06 pm Today (Wednesday 3/11):
A flood watch is in effect for the entire state through Saturday afternoon.
Possible flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is forecast for Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe through Saturday afternoon with the greatest risk for flash flooding Friday night through Saturday. The greatest risk of flash flooding for Oahu, Niihau and Kauai is Thursday night through Friday night.
“Considerable flash flooding remains possible as a large and powerful kona storm northwest of the state draws deep tropical moisture northward across the islands,” according to the forecast. “Persistent bands of heavy rain and thunderstorms may produce intense rainfall rates, leading to rapid rises in streams and flooding of roads and low-lying areas.”
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KHON posted the 5 things you SHOULD NOT DO during this kona low. These are all common sense but often times hard to follow because of curiosity or a simple lack of good judgement:
1. Sightseeing waves
Big surf draws crowds which makes people want to stand close to the shoreline to watch waves crash. That view can turn dangerous in seconds when waves surge higher than expected. Water rushes over rocks, roads and sidewalks during major storms, and one strong wave can knock a person down or pull them into the ocean. Officials warned people to stay far from the shoreline during high surf.
2. Beach watching
Storm surf makes the ocean look powerful and dramatic, but it also makes the coast unpredictable. Strong currents, flying debris and sudden surges can hit areas that usually stay dry. This means that parking near the shoreline or walking along coastal rocks raises the risk of you being washed out to sea or worse. Officials urged people to leave beaches alone during severe weather.
3. Hiking
Trails can change fast during a Kona Low because rain turns dirt paths into mud, loosens rocks loosen and makes streams rise. A trail that felt safe in the morning can become dangerous in the afternoon by the time you are leaving. Rescue crews often respond to hikers who get stranded after conditions shift which means you might get stranded in an unsafe area until the storm passes.
Officials said storms are a good day to stay off the trails.
4. Driving through flood water
Flooded roads look shallow, but the water often hides the real depth. Even a small amount of moving water can push a vehicle off the road. Flood water can also hide debris or washed-out pavement to make driving even more difficult that it already in with heavy rains. Officials warned drivers to turn around when water covers the road. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!
5. Ignoring barricades
Crews place barricades where flooding, falling rocks or storm damage threaten drivers to mark clearly danger zones. Some people move them or drive around them to save time or because they don’t like the detour, but that choice creates new risks for everyone on the road. Officials said barricades are there for a reason. So, it’s important to respect them.
The bottom line: A Kona Low is bringing powerful weather. Emergency officials said the safest move is simple:
- Follow closures and warnings.
- Stay away from the ocean.
- Avoid flooded roads.
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Everyone should be prepared for heavy rainfall and possible high winds. Stay informed by getting the HNL Alert app, notify friends and family, and watch the news for the latest information.