Molokaʻi is waking up under a flood advisory Saturday morning, with the alert in place through 7:00 a.m. HST on March 21 after bands of heavy rain pounded the island overnight. Officials are warning that minor street flooding, rising streams and low‑water crossings could quickly turn trouble spots in low‑lying communities into no‑go zones.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, the flooding concerns are being driven by excessive rainfall, with radar showing moderate to heavy showers parked over Molokaʻi at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. The office reports that water levels in Halawa and Kawela streams remain elevated and is urging the public, “Stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.” A Flood Watch is also in effect for the islands through Sunday evening.
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency pushed the advisory out on X, highlighting the 7:00 a.m. HST expiration time. The agency reminded followers that its social accounts are not monitored around the clock and that emergencies should go straight to 9‑1‑1. That post stands as the most recent local alert for residents and visitors on Molokaʻi. most recent local alert.
Where Flooding Is Most Likely
Per the National Weather Service in Honolulu, the advisory covers the entire island, with particular concern for Kaunakakai, Kualapuu, Hoolehua, Kawela, Pukoo and Halawa Valley. Forecasters cautioned that Kamehameha V Highway between Kaunakakai and Pukoo could be shut down if streams rise further and low‑water crossings become impassable.
How To Stay Safe
Officials urge drivers to avoid going through standing or flowing water and to never attempt low‑water crossings, even if they look shallow. Anyone facing life‑threatening flooding is advised to call 9‑1‑1 and follow directions from local emergency personnel and county officials.
Statewide Context
The Molokaʻi advisory comes as heavy rains have already triggered widespread flooding across Hawaii, leading to evacuations and hundreds of rescues on other islands, according to The Associated Press. Officials warn that more rain falling on already saturated ground could stretch the impacts into the rest of the weekend…