A flash flood watch remains in effect for Maui and Hawaii counties through Monday afternoon as heavy rain soaks the eastern half of the state.

The National Weather Service said recent heavy rainfall and saturated soil have increased the risk of flash flooding for Molokai, Maui, Lanai and Hawaii island.

Moderate to heavy trades will keep bringing mainly windward and mauka showers during the next couple of days, with the heaviest rainfall expected over those islands. Some of the larger showers will reach leeward areas at times, the weather service said.

The wet tradewind pattern might continue during the second half of the workweek as another area of increased moisture approaches the state from the east, forecasters said.

Kauai sirens to be tested

Kauai residents are being advised that nine newly installed Civil Defense outdoor warning sirens will be tested this week by the state and county.

The testing will be conducted Tuesday through Thursday  from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to a Kauai County news release.

The new sirens are at Wailua Houselots Park, Wailua Golf Course (south end), Hanamaulu Beach Park, Puhi, Koloa town, Poipu Beach Park, Halewili Road, Kalawai Park and Kekaha (next to the Chinese cemetery).

The Kauai Civil Defense Agency is seeking volunteers who are willing to assist with the testing by reporting any problems with the sirens, particularly those in new locations. Anyone who wants to volunteer can call 241-1800 or email civildefense@kauai.gov.