Heavy rainfall remains in the forecast for East Hawaii through Friday as a weakening Hilda passes south of the Big Island as a tropical depression.
Heavy rainfall remains in the forecast for East Hawaii through Friday as a weakening Hilda passes south of the Big Island as a tropical depression.
The storm was downgraded Thursday morning and could weaken to a remnant low in the next 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service.
After being delayed 12 hours, a flash flood watch went into effect for the Big Island at 6 a.m. It may remain in effect until 6 a.m. Saturday as a “big bubble of moisture” around Hilda hangs over the island, said meteorologist Robert Ballard.
“We’re looking at showers, heavy at times, for the windward side and parts of the Ka‘u district,” he said.
No wind impacts are expected from the storm. A high surf advisory will remain in effect until 6 p.m.
In total, Hilda is expected to produce 4 to 8 inches of rainfall, with higher amounts possible in some areas, Ballard said.
The highest rainfall amounts have so far been seen in the Hilo area.
As of 11:45 a.m., Waiakea Uka saw 3.29 inches in the past 24 hours. Gauges at Piihonua recorded 2.72 inches, while Hilo International Airport saw 1.45 inches.