A landslide caused by heavy rains led to the closure of Pali Highway’s town-bound lanes this afternoon and could remain closed through the weekend, according to state officials.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation alerted the public of the closure on social media channels at about 1:15 p.m. today and asked motorists to reroute to Kamehameha Highway.

The landslide occurred just past the second tunnel, with thick mud and fallen trees blocking town-bound lanes.

The City and County of Honolulu also sent out an alert on HNL.Info.

In a 3 p.m. update, DOT said the town-bound lanes of Pali Highway will remain closed as crews remove debris and assess the hillside and trees.

“The closure of the town-bound lanes and diversion of traffic to Kamehameha Highway at Castle Junction could potentially continue through the weekend,” said the department in a news release. “HDOT will update on the status of the closure after assessment of the hillside is completed and staff is confident the water infiltration behind the hillside is addressed.”

Motorists are encouraged to use the Likelike Highway or the H-3 freeway to travel between the windward side and Honolulu until further notice.

On Kauai, meanwhile, county officials say the mauka/westbound lane of Kuamoo Road is closed near Opaekaa Falls Lookout in Wailua due to an unstable slope beneath.

Travel in both directions will be maintained through alternating traffic control in the single remaining lane. Highway users are urged to use caution and avoid the area if possible.