Visiting Hawaiʻi: Current Weather Conditions & Travel Guidance

Updated 20 March 2026 | 10:00 a.m. HST

There is no reason to cancel or postpone upcoming travel to Hawaiʻi. The state remains safe and welcoming.

Current Situation

A kona low weather system is bringing significant rainfall to the Hawaiian Islands through Sunday, 22 March. Conditions have intensified overnight and are expected to peak today through Saturday, 21 March with the heaviest rain focused on Oʻahu and Maui County. Hawaiʻi Island can expect its heaviest rainfall on Sunday, 22 March.

Because grounds remain saturated from last week's storm system, the risk of flash flooding is elevated across the state, even during periods of moderate rainfall. Conditions can change quickly. Visitors are encouraged to monitor weather.gov/hfo for the latest weather conditions and exercise caution throughout the weekend.

Active Weather Alerts — 20 March 2026

  • Flash Flood Warning: Northern Oʻahu — including Haleʻiwa, Waialua, and areas along and north of Waianae Valley to Mililani Mauka to Waiāhole. Dangerous flash flooding is occurring in this area.
  • Flash Flood Warning: Oʻahu — flooding continues across portions of Honolulu and surrounding areas
  • Flood Watch: Statewide through Sunday, 22 March

For the latest weather alerts and conditions, visit weather.gov/hfo.

Conditions by Island

Oʻahu

  • Northern Oʻahu is experiencing dangerous flash flooding. Visitors should avoid the North Shore and all areas north of a line from Waianae Valley to Mililani Mauka to Waiāhole until further notice.
  • If you are currently on the North Shore: Do not attempt to drive out. Shelter in place at your current location or proceed to a designated emergency shelter if directed by local officials. Follow all guidance from emergency management and local authorities — conditions are changing rapidly.
  • Emergency slope stabilization work on Kamehameha Highway near Waimea Bay continues, with single-lane alternating traffic from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. and full overnight closures from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
  • The Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve are closed today.

Maui

Hawaiʻi Island 

  • Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has partially reopened, with access restored to the Kīlauea summit area and Chain of Craters Road. Additional areas remain closed while repair and cleanup work continues. 

Kauaʻi, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi 

  • A statewide Flood Watch remains in effect through Sunday afternoon. Visitors should exercise caution near streams, drainage areas, and low-lying roads.

What Visitors Should Know

On the road: Flash flooding can occur rapidly, even in areas experiencing moderate rainfall. Never drive through flowing or rising water — this includes streams and drainage ditches that may appear dry. Road closures are possible across the state. Check local conditions before heading out.

At the airport: Confirm your flight status directly with your airline before departing for the airport — airlines are the best source of real-time information on delays and changes. Ensure your airline has your current mobile number on file and enable app and SMS alerts. Allow extra time: at least 3 hours for transpacific flights and 90 minutes for interisland.

In and around the water: Wait 48–72 hours after rain stops before swimming, particularly where ocean water appears brown or murky. Avoid streams, rivers, and drainage ditches even if they appear dry.

Parks and facilities: Some state parks and facilities remain temporarily closed while safety assessments continue from last week’s storm. Visit dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp for the latest reopening information.

For Travelers with Upcoming Trips

Conditions are expected to improve early next week as the kona low moves north of the state. Visitors with trips planned for later in the week and beyond should keep their plans. Hawaiʻi looks forward to welcoming you.

Resources

This page will be updated as conditions change. Last updated 20 March 2026, 10:00 a.m. HST.

Return to Special Alerts General Information

Learn More