US: Severe weather warning ongoing over Maui Island, Hawaii, early Jan. 10

Severe weather is ongoing across Maui Island, Hawaii, Jan. 10. The US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood warning and severe thunderstorm warning across the island early Jan. 10. Radars indicate rainfall rates of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) per hour and winds gusting up to 97 kph (60 mph) are occurring over the island early Jan. 10. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly areas, especially where heavy rain saturates the soil.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Transport, electricity, and telecommunications disruptions are also possible in areas impacted by flooding.