LIHUE, Kauai — Record rainfall on Kauai has been slowing traffic and flooding roads, and more rain may be on the way.
Lihue Airport recorded 1.45 inches of rain in 24 hours, the National Weather Service told The Garden Island on Monday. That beat the one-day record of 1.01 inches for June 2 that was set in 1962.
Flooding could continue, although flash flooding should not last into Wednesday, said Chris Jacobson, a meteorologist with the weather service. Residents and visitors were being warned to stay away from streams, and to not cross fast-flowing or rising water.
A large area of low atmospheric pressure disrupted trade winds and caused the downpour, the weather service said.
“We are looking for the trades to return with the typical trade shower from Wednesday and on through the weekend,” Jacobson said.
The Grove Farm station northwest of Lihue reported 2.88 inches of rain, and areas of the Wailua Homesteads reported more than 3 inches, according to the weather service. Mount Waialeale reported 2.02 inches, and Kapahi reported 2.03 inches.
Kauai police reported slow traffic on Kuhio Highway between Kapaa and Lihue.