As a powerful kona storm begins to impact the western end of the state today, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the Big Island beginning Wednesday. The kona storm forms northwest of Hawaiʻi in this satellite image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Hawaiʻi County will close all non-emergency services and operations Friday and Saturday (March 13-14) as a strong kona low moves through the state and over Hawaiʻi Island. Closures affect all county offices as well as park facilities including Hilo Municipal Golf Course and Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens plus all solid waste facilities.

A powerful and slow-moving kona low northwest of the islands will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to the state through the upcoming weekend. Expect periods of heavy rain, bringing the potential for flash flooding,

A powerful kona storm is continuing to impact the Hawaiian Islands and is expected to intensify, bringing periods of heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds, and strong thunderstorms. Wind gusts