Posted on: Sunday, January 9, 2005

Storm soaks O'ahu

Advertiser Staff

Heavy rain, strong winds and lightning swept across O'ahu late last night and early this morning, flooding and closing roads in some areas and knocking out power in parts of Wahiawa, Hale'iwa and Waialua.

The National Weather Service issued an urban and small stream flood advisory just before 1 a.m., as the storm was moving across the Island. There were also several reports of downed trees and vehicle accidents, although it was not immediately clear whether the accidents were related to the bad weather.

At least a handful of power lines were down around Wahiawa and the North Shore, according to police. Kilani Avenue in Wahiawa was closed. A fallen tree closed Kamehameha Highway in both directions near Kawela Bay.

"We've been experiencing high winds, rain and lightning," said Sgt. Scott Toyama at the Honolulu Police Department's Wahiawa station.

A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Kaua'i at about 9 p.m. last night. Kaua'i reported heavy rain and some lightning, but no high winds or hail.

The weather service advised those in the path of the storm to move indoors and away from doors and windows.