UPDATE (3:30 p.m.) – The Flood Advisory has shifted from East to West Hawaii. At 3:12 p.m. HST, the National Weather Service reported radar indicated heavy rain over the Kona slopes of the Big Island of Hawaii. Rain was falling at a rate of one to two inches per hour.

Locations in the new advisory include but are not limited to Kailua-Kona, Captain Cook, Waikoloa Village, Puuanahulu, Honaunau, Kahaluu-Keauhou, Kainaliu, Honalo, Kealakekua, Kalaoa, Holualoa and Hawaiian Ocean View.

This advisory may need to be extended beyond 6:15 p.m. HST if heavy rain persists, forecasters say.

PREVIOUS ADVISORY

(BIVN) – The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for Hawaii Island to include areas of North Kohala, Hamakua, Hilo, and Puna.

At 12:41 p.m. HST, radar and rain gauge reports indicated heavy rain falling over the windward side of the Big Island of Hawaii. Forecasters said rain was falling at a rate of one to two inches per hour.

Locations in the advisory include but are not limited to Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kapaau, Honokaa, Paauilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidlands Estates, Kukuihaele, Hawi, Pepeekeo, Keaau and Kamuela.

Hawaii County Civil Defense issued an alert, saying that “residents in flood prone areas are asked to be on the alert for possible flooding conditions. Stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.”

“Motorists in affected areas are advised to drive with caution as road closures can occur without notice at any time,” civil defense says. “Be on the alert for hazardous driving conditions due to ponding and reduced visibility. Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle, or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.”

This advisory is in effect until 3:45 p.m. but may need to be extended if heavy rain persists, forecasters say.