Flash flood watch in effect for all of Hawaii Island

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A flash flood warning is in effect for the North and South Kohala districts of Hawaii Island, and a flash flood watch is in effect for the entire island.

A high wind warning also remains in effect this afternoon, according to Civil Defense.

“Expect high winds and thunderstorms with heavy rains to continue throughout today for all parts of Hawaii Island,” warns a Civil Defense alert.

Multiple parks around Hawaii Island have been closed as a “Kona low” weather system continues to impact communities islandwide.

The closures include Konawaena Swimming Pool, Kona Community Aquatic Center, Honokaʻa Swimming Complex, Kawamoto Swim Stadium, Pahoa Pool, Kamehameha Park, Hisaoka Gym, Waimea District Park and the Hilo Municipal Golf Course.

The closures are due to lightning, fallen branches and tree limbs or other safety hazards associated with the current weather conditions. There have been no damages to the facilities listed.

“We’re taking precautions to ensure the public’s safety through what’s predicted to be a pretty thick storm,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a statement. “As we continue to prepare our facilities and systems for the brunt of the weather they’re seeing on Oahu and Maui, we’re asking our residents to make sure that they prepare their households as well. A safe community is a prepared community.”

Additional closures of county facilities may be necessary and could come with little warning.