A flash flood watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday for the Big Island, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.
The flash flood watch for the entire island was issued ahead of the arrival of an upper-level trough and associated cold front expected to bring the potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms to all of the Hawaiian Islands. The National Weather Service said at least 3 inches of rain could fall, which could cause flash flooding.
In addition to possible flash flooding, the service cautioned of excessive runoff that could result in rock and mudslides in steep terrain. Fast-moving waters may create life-threatening situations.
One lane of Highway 270 (Akoni Pule Highway) remained closed Tuesday afternoon in the vicinity of mile marker 27, near Keokea Beach Park, in North K0hala because of ponding and runoff.
A flash flood watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. According to the service, it does not have to be raining heavily where you are for flash flooding to occur.
A flash flood warning means that flash flooding is imminent or already occurring in streams, roads and low-lying areas. Those in the effected areas are urged to move to higher ground.