National Weather Service in Honolulu issued a Flood Watch for Maui and Big Island, which went into effect for Maui early this morning and lasts through late tonight.

A watch means that weather conditions are possible. A warning is issued when weather conditions are happening or are about to happen.

During a flood watch, flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible and flood prone roads and other low-lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams, according to the National Weather Service.

An upper level trough moving in from the west is bringing rain over the eastern half of the state, NWS said. A jet stream leading the trough will enhance periods of moderate to locally heavy rainfall. The heaviest rainfall amounts are forecast for the windward slope of Haleakala in East Maui.

The public is encouraged to monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action should warnings be

issued, NWS added.