Update from August 24, 5:29 p.m.: The flood warning for parts of eastern and northern Hawaii has been extended until 8:45 p.m.
By 5:25 p.m., 2 to 4 inches of rain had already fallen over the windward Big Island, and radar indicated that moderate to locally heavy showers continued to move ashore at rates of 0.5 to 1.5 inches per hour.
Currents continue to slowly increase in the warning area. Rain is expected to continue through tonight as Tropical Storm Hone passes just south of the island.
Original article from August 24, 3:19 p.m.: And so it begins.
The first major effects of Tropical Storm Hone are already being felt: A flood warning has been issued for Hilo, Puna, Hāmākua and parts of Kohala, which is valid until 5:45 p.m. today.
In the warning areas, flooding of roads, areas with poor drainage and rivers may occur due to excessive rainfall.
As of 2:37 p.m. today, 1 to 3 inches of rain fell across the windward Big Island, and radar indicated moderate to locally heavy showers moving ashore at rates of 0.5 to 1 inch per hour. Rain is expected to continue throughout the afternoon and overnight.
Locations that will experience flooding include Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kapa’au, Honoka’a, Pāpa’ikou, Honomū, Pepe’ekeo, Mountain View, Glenwood, Hakalau, Volcano, Nīnole, Kea’ au, Laupāhoehoe and Hawaiian Acres, ‘Ō’ōkala, Orchidlands Estates, Pa’auilo and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
People in the warning zone should stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas prone to flooding.
In addition, a flood warning and a tropical storm warning are in effect as Tropical Storm Hone approaches the island.
