The Maui Emergency Management Agency has issued flood advisories for high- and moderate-risk flood-prone areas across Maui County as a second kona storm approaches.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch from 6 p.m. Thursday, March 19, through 6 p.m. Sunday. Forecasts predict 7-14 inches of rain over the weekend, with the heaviest rainfall expected Friday evening through Saturday. This increases the risk of flash flooding, falling trees, landslides, and hazardous road conditions.

Officials said many of the affected areas fall within federal floodplains and are known to be vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall. The advisory is not an evacuation warning or order but is intended to alert residents and visitors to be prepared.

South Kihei has been identified as a high-risk area due to significant sediment accumulation from last week’s kona storm, which has reduced drainage capacity. Cleanup efforts are ongoing, but the flood risk remains elevated. Other areas identified as moderate risk include Iao, East Molokai, Lahaina and East Maui.

Residents can check whether their address falls within an advisory area by visiting the Genasys Protect website at tinyurl.com/4r7j62k2 or downloading the Genasys Protect app and searching their address. The app allows users to save up to 10 locations and receive alerts when entering or leaving advisory zones.

Residents and visitors in advisory areas are encouraged to prepare emergency “go bags” with essential items such as medications, important documents, clothing and basic supplies. Households should also have enough food, water and necessities to safely shelter in place for at least 72 hours, and ideally up to 14 days, in case access to services is limited.

Even in areas not under an official advisory, officials urge people to use their best judgment and move to a safer location if conditions feel unsafe.

The incoming kona storm follows a powerful storm that impacted the state from March 13 to 16. Maui recorded the highest rainfall totals statewide during that event, while wind speeds were among the strongest, according to the National Weather Service. Flooding and wind damage were reported in South Maui, Iao, Upper Kula, East Maui, Lahaina and East Molokai.

For more information, the public can visit the National Weather Service Honolulu website or sign up for alerts through MEMA and Genasys Protect.