Flooding has caused the closures of two roads in Hilo this afternoon, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense.
Closed are East Kawailani Street, between Kamalii Street to Hoonani Place, and Kukila Street off Railroad Avenue in the Kanoelehua Industrial Area.
Hawaii Police Department reports driving conditions in Hamakua, Hilo Puna, and Ka‘u are poor due to heavy downpours.
Motorists are advised to avoid the affected area, use alternate routes and drive with caution.
The National Weather Service has extended a flash flood advisory for Hawaii Island until 6 p.m. this evening, and could extend it further, if conditions warrant.
Heavy rains, thunder and lightning are expected to continue through tonight, although the weather service said those conditions are expected to taper off by Wednesday morning.
If lightning threatens your area, the safest place to be is indoors. Due to the lightning, power, cable and phone service may be interrupted.