The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for Hilo and vicinity until 4:45 p.m.
According to NWS, at 1:39 p.m., radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain near Hilo falling at rates up to 2 inches per hour. The area of rain is nearly stationary. Locations in the advisory include but are not limited to: Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Papaikou, Pepeekeo, Keaau, Mountain View, Honomu, Hakalau, Hawaiian Acres, Glenwood, Orchidland Estates, Ninole, Wainaku, Paukaa, Kurtistown, Fern Acres, Eden Roc and Hawaiian Beaches.
People in those areas are advised to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.
Rainfall and runoff will also cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action. Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle, or on foot.