Visiting Hawaiʻi: Current Weather Conditions & Travel Guidance

Updated 22 March 2026 | 9:00 a.m. HST

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

Current Situation

The kona low weather system is lifting north of the island chain with conditions gradually improving statewide, though impacts vary significantly by island and area. Flooding concerns linger in low-lying areas statewide as grounds remain saturated from last week’s storm. The heaviest rain and possible thunderstorms are currently focused on Oʻahu and Maui County, with an increase in showers expected over Hawaiʻi Island.

Visitors are encouraged to monitor weather.gov/hfo for the latest weather conditions and exercise caution throughout the weekend.

Active Weather Alerts — 22 March 2026

  • Flash Flood Warning: Molokaʻi through 11:00 a.m.
  • Flood Watch: All islands except Kauaʻi through this afternoon, 22 March
  • Brown Water Advisory: Kauaʻi;, Oʻahu,; Maui; Hawaiʻi Island: from Ki‘ilae Bay, South to Kalae point (South Point),  from ʻAlula Beach (Dog Beach), South to Hōnaunau Bay, from Pauoa Bay, South to Honokōhau Harbor, from Pololū Valley, South to Holoholokai Beach Park

For the latest weather alerts and conditions, visit weather.gov/hfo or tune into local radio (list below) for real-time updates.

Conditions by Island

Oʻahu

  • Due to excessive flooding, visitors should avoid the North Shore until further notice.
  • Most businesses and activities around the island are open except the following impacted attractions:
    • Polynesian Cultural Center: Closed, expected to reopen Monday, 23 March
    • Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve: Open - select activities available
    • Lēʻahi (Diamond Head) State Monument: Closed through Monday, 23 March
    • Sea Life Park, including its lū‘au: Closed
    • Kaula Lūʻau: Closed
    • CLIMB Works Keana Farms: Closed
    • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Closed
    • Honolulu Zoo: Closed
    • City & County Botanical Gardens: Closed

Maui

  • Due to excessive flooding, visitors should avoid Lahaina.
  • Flights to Kapalua were canceled yesterday (21 March) and may still be affected. Contact your airline directly for updates.
  • Access in East Maui remains limited to local traffic. Monitor the Maui County Road Closure Notifications page for the latest updates.
  • The Road to Hāna is not accessible to visitors at this time.
  • Evacuation WARNINGS in effect for parts of ʻĪao Valley in Central Maui, Kīhei in South Maui, Wailuku, and Lahaina. Warnings and advisories are NOT mandatory evacuation orders.
  • Attraction updates:
    • Both districts of Haleakalā National Park: Closed until further notice due to road repairs.
    • Waiʻānapanapa State Park: Closed through 30 March
    • ʻĪao Valley State Monument: Closed through 30 March

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. 

Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi 

  • A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect through Sunday afternoon. Visitors should exercise caution near streams, drainage areas, and low-lying roads.
  • Flights to Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi were canceled yesterday (21 March) and may still be affected. Contact your airline directly for updates.

What Visitors Should Know

On the road: Road closures are possible across the state. Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle, or on foot — this includes streams and drainage ditches that may appear dry. Flash flooding can occur rapidly, even in areas experiencing moderate rainfall. 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

Local Radio

Local radio is one of the most reliable sources of real-time information during a weather event, particularly while driving or in areas with limited cell service. Tune in to the following stations for continuous weather and emergency updates:

This page will be updated as conditions change. Last updated 22 March 2026, 9:00 a.m. HST.

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