HAWAII ISLAND – A flash flood warning has been issued for Hawaii Island until 6:15 p.m. HST.

At 3:08 p.m. HST, radar indicated a thunderstorm producing heavy rain near Waikii, or about 9 miles south of Waimea. The storm is nearly stationary. Rain was falling at a rate of 3 inches per hour.

“Flash flooding is expected to begin shortly,” the National Weather Service stated.

Locations in the warning include but are not limited to Waikoloa Village, Waimea, Puuanahulu, Pohakuloa, Waipio Valley and Waikii.

A flash flood warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low lying areas. “Move to higher ground now,” said forecasters. “Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle, turn around, don’t drown.

This warning may need to be extended beyond 6:15 pm HST if heavy rain persists.