HAWAII ISLAND – A flood advisory is in effect for the Big Island until 6:30 p.m. HST.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu extended the flood advisory for Hawaii County at 3:13 p.m., when radar indicated heavy rain and thunderstorms over the South Kohala and North Kona districts of the Big Island. Rain was falling at a rate of 2 to 3 inches per hour, and was especially heavy over Waikoloa Village.

Forecasters say locations in the advisory include but are not limited to the Saddle Road junction, Waimea, Puako, Puuanahulu, Waikoloa Beach Resort, Waikoloa Village and Waiki’i.

There is also plenty of rain falling in East Hawaii. The National Weather Service rainfall summary at 3:45 pm HST for Piihonua above Hilo Hospital was 3.70 inches. Waikea Uka rainfall totaled 3.97 inches.

Motorists are advised to drive with caution and to be aware of possible ponding and runoff. Also, forecasters warn residents and visitors to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.

This advisory may need to be extended beyond 6:30 pm HST if heavy rain persists.