COUNTY OF HAWAIʻI MAYOR C. KIMO ALAMEDA, PH.D. Storm System Could Bring Flooding, Lightning to Hawaiʻi Island

COUNTY OF HAWAIʻI
MAYOR C. KIMO ALAMEDA, PH.D.
Storm System Could Bring Flooding, Lightning to Hawaiʻi Island

January 3, 2026

The County of Hawai‘i urges residents and visitors to prepare for a strong storm system that could bring lightning and heavy, flooding rains to Hawai‘i Island this weekend and into Monday.

While the exact path and volume of rain from the storm system is still unclear, the National Weather Service has issued a statewide Flood Watch running from late Saturday through Monday afternoon for the system. “On the Big Island and Maui, the greatest flood risk will be on southeast slopes,” NWS reported.

A Kona low – a powerful low-pressure system that can produce strong winds and heavy rain – is expected to develop north of Kaua‘i on Saturday and push moist, unstable air across the state from the south and southeast. Such storms can drop inches of rain in a short time. They also can stall over an area and saturate the ground, increasing the risk of falling rocks or landslides on steep terrain.

“Storms like this are unpredictable and potentially dangerous, so we urge the public to be prepared,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “The picture right now looks like the biggest risk is to Puna and Hilo communities, but that could shift to Ka‘ū or to Kona coast communities by later this weekend.”

“This is an evolving storm, so we encourage everyone to stay informed about the forecast; if you haven’t already done so, we encourage you to sign up for emergency alerts at the Hawai‘i County Civil Defense website to receive updates on your cell phone,” said Talmadge Magno, Civil Defense Administrator.

Here are additional steps to prepare:

Consider changing or delaying plans for travel or outdoor activities during inclement weather, including routes that have low-lying areas prone to flooding.

Know the areas that are prone to flooding, especially near your home, and use extra caution around them. Heavy rain uphill from your location can cause flooding, even if it’s not raining where you are.

Never try to cross moving water, on foot or in a vehicle: “Turn around, don’t drown.”

Monitor local forecasts from reliable sources for the latest information about the storm and its potential hazards.

If lightning threatens, the safest place to be is indoors. If you’re in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle, but pull off the road if rain is dangerously heavy and it is safe to pull over.

Have a “go bag” ready in case you have to evacuate the area, especially if your home is in an area prone to flooding. It should include food, water, necessary medication, important documents, and other necessities for the members of your household (including pets) if you need to leave in a hurry.

Check in with neighbors, especially those who may have mobility problems, to make sure they have a safe way to evacuate if flooding strikes.