Hawaii Grapples with Severe Weather: Widespread Closures and Warnings Issued for February 9, 2026

Statewide Alert as Severe Weather Grips Hawaii

Hawaii is facing a day of severe weather on Monday, February 9, 2026, as heavy rains, flash flooding, and damaging winds impact the islands. Governor Josh Green has urged residents to take precautions and stay informed, issuing an emergency proclamation to mobilize state resources and support response efforts. The proclamation is effective through Wednesday, February 11, 2026, and may be extended depending on conditions.

Widespread Closures Across the Islands

In response to the hazardous conditions, numerous institutions and services across Hawaii have announced closures for February 9, 2026. All state offices and Department of Education schools on all islands are closed, with affected state employees granted administrative leave. The University of Hawaiʻi campuses are also shut down due to dangerous weather, particularly high winds. Additionally, the Hawaiʻi State Legislature and all state courthouses and operations are closed, with filing deadlines extended to Tuesday.

County-level closures include non-essential offices and services in the City and County of Honolulu, along with the Honolulu Zoo, municipal golf courses, and park facilities. On the Big Island, solid waste facilities and most county park facilities, including all beach parks, are closed, and shelters have been opened in areas like Waimea, Kapaʻau, Honokaʻa, and Papāʻaloa. Waipio Valley Road is closed through Tuesday morning, with access limited to residents and farmers. Maui has seen restrictions on Hāna Highway due to fallen trees and landslides, and Kepaniwai Heritage Park in ʻĪao Valley is closed due to rising waters.

Weather Advisories and Expected Impacts

The National Weather Service has issued multiple advisories, including a statewide Flood Watch in effect until 6 p.m. Monday. Heavy rain is causing flooding on roads and in poor drainage areas, with some low-water crossings becoming impassable. Radar indicates heavy rain over coastal and upslope areas of the Hāmākua and Hilo districts, with rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Some areas around Honokaʻa and Paʻauilo have already received 10 to 12 inches of rain over the past 24 hours.

A High Wind Warning is in effect for all Hawaiian Islands until 6 p.m. Monday, with northeast winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph expected. These damaging winds pose a risk of downed trees and power lines, and power outages are possible. Travel is expected to be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. A high surf warning is also in effect through Tuesday morning for east-facing shores across several islands, including Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, and Hawaiʻi Island, making all beach parks closed until further notice. Additionally, a winter storm warning is in effect for summits above 11,000 feet on the Big Island, with snow accumulations of 10 to 16 inches expected on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.