The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the Big Island until 2:45 a.m. Friday (Aug 8).

At 11:44 p.m. Thursday weather radar showed numerous bands of moderate to heavy rainfall continuing to move over the Northeast and East facing slopes of the Big Island. Stream gauges were showing steady rises which suggest runoff levels in flood prone areas of Hilo. Hamakua and Windward Kohala were reaching a point where road closures may be imminent or occuring.

Other locations in the warning include, but are not limited to, Waipio Valley, Laupahoehoe, Ookala, Honokaa, Waimea, Hilo, Keaau, Pahoa, Mountain View, Volcano and Glenwood.

A Flash Flood Warning means flash flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low lying areas. Move to higher ground immediately.

This warning may need to be extended beyond 2:45 a.m. if flash flooding persists.

Campers and hikers should avoid low lying flood prone areas. People should stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding. The rainfall and runoff will cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action. The runoff from this storm may also cause rock and mudslides in steep terrain.

Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown.

For links to the latest weather forecasts, reports, radar and satellite imagery visit our Weather Page at hawaii247.com/weather