Hawaiʻi County officials are advising the public to proceed with caution and awareness as extreme weather conditions are anticipated into the weekend.

Rainfall is expected to reach up to 20 inches throughout a 72-hour period. The public should anticipate road closures, particularly in flood-prone areas.

The areas expected to see the most severe impacts are Kaʻū, Puna, and Hilo, including areas along the Hāmākua Coast to Waipiʻo Valley. Road crews, utilities, Fire, and Police stand ready to address impacts caused by the anticipated weather as they occur to ensure public safety.

In a press release Mayor Mitch Roth said“We’re expecting a lot of rain over a condensed period and are asking residents to prepare for that. Rainfall is nothing new to us, but as we look at the impacts we’ve had from similar events over the past couple of years, it’s better to be safe than sorry. We’ve seen the benefits of community preparedness and trust that the community will always do what is in the best interest of each other and our collective safety.”

Closures and cancellations of outdoor activities may take place with little to no notice, pending the severity of the weather impacts.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update the public as necessary.