Heavy rain near Hilo prompts flash flood warning

Heavy rain falling at a rate of 3 inches per hour near Hilo has prompted a flash flood warning that will remain in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday.

At 2 p.m., the rain gauge at Waiakea Uka showed heavy rain falling at 3 inches per hour, according to National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu. The area of heavy rain was nearly stationary.

A flash flood warning means that flash flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low-lying areas. Forecasters cautioned the public to move to higher ground now.