Big Island Recovers from Major Winter Storm: Flood Watches Lifted

The Big Island has emerged from a significant winter storm, with flood watches canceled and weather conditions improving. Emergency shelters have closed, and utility services are being restored. A brown water advisory is in effect due to stormwater runoff, urging residents to avoid unsafe waters. Hawaiian Electric has made progress in addressing power outages caused by the storm.

The Big Island has officially emerged from the major winter storm that passed through the Hawaiian Islands. As of now, lingering showers are present, but the National Weather Service has canceled the flood watch, once anticipated to extend into the evening. The storm affected all islands, with Hawaiʻi County being the last to have its flood watch lifted after improvements in Maui County’s conditions.

Most weather advisories from earlier have been canceled or expired, except for a high wind warning still in effect for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The severe winter storm initially forecast to bring up to 2 feet of snow to these areas has diminished in threat as conditions improved by the afternoon.

In light of the improved weather, all seven emergency shelters previously opened in Hawaiʻi County have closed. However, county park facilities will remain closed until Saturday. Residents who have experienced storm-related damages are encouraged to report these through official Civil Defense channels.

Public transportation has resumed, with the Hele-On Bus service back in operation since 10:30 a.m. Although weather conditions improved, the Hawai‘i Department of Health has issued a brown water advisory for the entire island due to runoff from heavy rains, advising the public to avoid areas where the water appears murky or brown.

Hawaiian Electric reported significant progress in reducing power outages across the state, from around 39,500 to approximately 10,800 outages by late morning. Notably, fewer than 200 individuals remained without power on the Big Island by early afternoon, with ongoing restoration efforts continuing despite the adverse weather conditions.

Earlier, special marine warnings indicated dangerous thunderstorms affecting southeast and windward waters around the Big Island. Radar showed severe thunderstorms capable of producing dangerous water formations, advising mariners to stay aware of hazardous conditions. This has underscored the need for safety measures among those at sea.

The major winter storm that recently impacted the Hawaiian Islands significantly affected the Big Island, resulting in weather-related advisories and public safety concerns. The storm prompted flood watches and warnings, particularly concerning conditions in low-lying areas. As the storm moved out of the region, the response from local authorities focused on ensuring public safety and restoring normalcy after the storm’s impact.

In conclusion, the Big Island has successfully weathered the recent winter storm, as indicated by the lifting of flood watches and other weather advisories. Local authorities and service providers are working diligently to restore normal operations, including public transportation and utility services. While the storm has passed, residents are advised to remain cautious regarding water quality and potential health risks connected with recent flooding.

Original Source: bigislandnow.com