Rain, possible flooding and even snow in weekend forecast
Clouds hang over the Koolaus above Punchbowl this afternoon in this view looking mauka from South Street. (Craig Gima/cgima@staradvertiser.com)
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Hawaii island. Forecasters say a front is moving through the island chain and bringing heavy showers with it. It is expected to stall near Hawaii island by late Saturday. Forecasters say the Kailua-Kona area will be particularly susceptible to flooding.
Cloudy skies and scattered showers are in the forecast for Honolulu this weekend as a cold front moves over the islands. Hawaii island is expected to bear the brunt of the rains.
Forecasters say the cold front and a weather system in the upper atmosphere converged over Hawaii island Friday, creating the potential for heavy rain and even snow on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, where up to 5 inches may fall. Both summits are under a winter weather advisory until 6 p.m. Saturday because of dangerously strong winds, snow and blowing snow.
Winds of 45 to 70 mph with gusts of up to 90 mph are blowing on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa with the strongest winds expected tonight. Haleakala on Maui is under a wind advisory with winds there blowing from the southwest at 25 to 35 mph with gusts of more than 45 mph.
The cold front is expected to stall over Hawaii island and wet weather remains in the forecast there through Sunday.
Forecasters say the Kailua-Kona area will be particularly susceptible to flooding.
Skies should clear in the beginning of the week, but another weather system may reach the islands later in the week.
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The Associated Press contributed to this story.
