courtesy the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

UPDATE (5:45 p.m.) – The Flash Flood Warning for Hawaii Island has been extended until 8:45 p.m. HST.

Hawaii County Police and Public Works Department reports the following road closures:

• In Hilo, Kamehameha Avenue, Pauahi Street, and Kukila Street closures remain in place.
• In Puna, some interior roadways have been closed in the subdivisions of Hawaiian Acres, Orchidland and near the Pohoiki area.
• In Hamakua, Waipi’o Valley Road and Laupahoehoe Point Road are open to local residential traffic only.

UPDATE (3 p.m.) – The Flash Flood Warning for Hawaii Island has been extended until 5:45 p.m. HST.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu says locations in the current warning include but are not limited to Hilo, Paauilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidland Estates, Pepeekeo, Keaau, Waimea, Honokaa, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Pahoa, Hawaiian Acres, Mountain View, and Glenwood.

The NWS added:

At 2:27 PM HST, rainfall continues over the windward slopes of the Big Island but at a reduced rate than a few hours ago. The Hawaii County Civil Defense reported that significant flooding impacts are ongoing, especially in the bayfront area of Hilo and in the Hawaiian Acres area of Puna. Additional rain bands may continue to move over the windward slopes from the east through the rest of the afternoon.

(BIVN) – Recent rain bands have been soaking the lower elevations and are causing significant flooding impacts along the Hamakua, Hilo, and Puna areas of Hawaii Island, the National Weather Service reports.

A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for parts of Hawaii County until 2:45 p.m. HST.

Hawaii County Parks and Recreation Department reports all parks, gyms, swimming pools, and community centers in Hamakua, Hilo and Puna are closed.

A shelter has been opened at the Butler Building near the Hilo Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium for individuals who may need it.

Hawaii County Civil Defense reports multiple road closures as of 1 p.m. Thursday:

• In Hilo, Kamehameha Avenue between Pauahi Street and Ponahawai Street. Traffic in Hilo is now rerouted through Bay Front Highway.
• Pauahi Street between Aupuni Street and Kamehameha Avenue.
• East Kawailani Street between Ho’onani Street and Ahuna Street.
• Kukila Street near Railroad Avenue.

Due to very dangerous flooding conditions, heavy rain, and road closures, Hawaii County Civil Defense says the following advisories are issued:

• All residents in flood prone areas are asked to take necessary precautions and remain on alert for flooding conditions. Consider cancelling or postponing activities where possible. Do not drive unless necessary.
• If you must drive, be on the alert for debris, runoffs, and ponding of water. You should expect delays, plan ahead and drive with caution as driving conditions are poor.
• Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle, or on foot.
• Be aware that additional road closures may occur without notice.

Additional rainfall is expected to develop over the windward slopes through the day, forecasters say. A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for the entire island.