Hawaii is once again facing a severe threat of flash flooding as a third Kona Low develops, bringing additional torrential rains to the already water-logged islands.This weather system follows closely on the heels of back-to-back Kona Lows that caused significant flooding on Maui and Oahu less than a month ago.
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foxweather.comAs of Wednesday, several inches of rain have already been recorded, particularly on Maui and the Big Island, with Pāhoa Beacon reporting a total of 11.4 inches since Tuesday.
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yahoo.comThe FOX Forecast Center has issued flash flood alerts across all Hawaiian islands through Friday, with a specific Flash Flood Warning for the southeastern tip of Maui.
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foxweather.comyahoo.comForecasts predict that by Sunday, portions of the Big Island could receive over a foot of rain, while other areas across the islands may see widespread accumulations of 5 to 8 inches.
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yahoo.comThese conditions are likely to exacerbate the ongoing threat of flash flooding, as the ground is already saturated from previous rainfall, which has left drainage systems and streams vulnerable to overflow.
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aol.comThe recent weather comes after some areas in Hawaii experienced their wettest month on record.For instance, Kahului on Maui recorded an astounding 21.11 inches of rain in March, marking its wettest month in over a century.
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yahoo.comSimilarly, Honolulu experienced its fourth-wettest March on record, with 13.61 inches recorded.
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foxweather.comDue to the saturated conditions, authorities are warning of potential road closures, property damage in urban and low-lying areas, and landslides in steep terrains.
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foxweather.comaol.comThe inundation has already prompted numerous evacuations, especially on Oahu, where the Honolulu Fire Department has been actively involved in water rescues and evacuations as rising waters impact communities.
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yahoo.comThe devastation from previous Kona Lows is still fresh in the minds of residents.During last month's flooding, some areas saw homes and buildings collapse due to the overwhelming floodwaters.
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foxweather.comHawaii Governor Josh Green characterized the situation as the worst flood the state has endured in 20 years, estimating damages could reach as high as $1 billion.
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yahoo.comaol.comIn addition to the heavy rains, experts also predict the possibility of strong thunderstorms, which could become severe if conditions align on Thursday.
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foxweather.comWind gusts of 40 to 50 mph are also anticipated as the Kona Low moves onshore, according to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center.
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yahoo.comAs Hawaii prepares for the impending deluge, residents are urged to stay updated through local weather services and heed evacuation orders if necessary.The state continues to grapple with the aftermath of severe weather events, highlighting the increasing challenges posed by climate change and the need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
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foxweather.comyahoo.comStay tuned to local news for ongoing updates and safety information as Hawaii braces for yet another round of severe weather conditions.
