The recent heavy rainfall on the Big Island of Hawaii has caused significant disruptions, with Highway 11 being closed due to flooding. This closure affected commuters and residents alike, highlighting the challenges posed by the wet season. The question arises: Are we certain that the wet season ended as scheduled in April?
The rainfall totals from Monday night through Tuesday, June 1-2, 2026, paint a picture of intense precipitation. Some areas received over 10 inches of rain in just 24 hours, with the Saddle Quarry recording an astonishing 13.31 inches. This deluge caused flooding, leading to the closure of Highway 11 between mile markers 57 and 62, near Kāwā and Honuʻapo in Kaʻū. The lack of alternate routes further exacerbated the situation, causing inconvenience and frustration for the public.
The National Weather Service's flood advisory, issued just before 9:30 p.m. on Monday, covered several locations in the southern, southeastern, eastern, northern, and northeastern parts of the island. The advisory was extended throughout much of Tuesday, highlighting the persistent heavy rainfall and flooding. Coreen Nelson's report of 3.5 inches of rain on Lorenzo Road in Kaʻū further emphasizes the magnitude of the rainfall.
The radar indicated heavy rain, falling at a rate of half an inch to 1.5 inches per hour, over the windward and southeast portions of the Big Island. The heaviest rainfall was concentrated over Kaʻū, lower Puna, and South Hilo. This persistent precipitation led to additional flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas and streams, affecting locations such as Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Kapaʻau, Honoka‘a, Volcano, Glenwood, and many more.
The impact of this extreme rainfall extends beyond the immediate closure of Highway 11. It raises questions about the preparedness of the island's infrastructure and the potential long-term consequences of such intense weather events. The wet season's end may need to be re-evaluated, considering the recent rainfall patterns. The public's patience and cooperation during the extended closure are commendable, but it underscores the need for better preparedness and alternative routes to minimize the impact of future weather events.
In my opinion, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Hawaii's infrastructure to extreme weather conditions. It highlights the importance of re-evaluating the timing of the wet season and implementing measures to enhance resilience. The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding have not only caused immediate disruptions but also raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of the island's transportation and drainage systems. As we move forward, it is crucial to address these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents and visitors alike.
