Urgent travel advisory for Canadians heading to tropical vacation destination

Canadians already in Hawaii or with upcoming trips to the island state are urged to be extra careful.

On April 8, the Government of Canada updated its travel advisory for the U.S., urging caution for travellers in Hawaii due to a flood watch.

"A statewide flood watch is in effect for Hawaii due to heavy rainfall from a severe Kona storm," reads the update. "Some areas are at increased risk of flooding following heavy rainfall in March."

Travellers are also advised that flood warnings and evacuation orders "could be issued on short notice." The Department of Emergency Management shares updates on evacuation orders, along with directions to shelters.

According to CNN, parts of Hawaii could see months' worth of rain over just a few days, increasing the risk of landslides. The storm could bring in around four to eight inches of rain on Friday, possibly even going over 10 inches.

There's currently a high wind warning for Honolulu, with expected winds of 20 to 30 mph (32 to 48 km/h), with possible gusts up to 60 mph (96 km/h). The warning was issued for Central Oahu, Koolau Leeward, Koolau Windward, Oahu North Shore, Olomana, and Waianae Mountains, and is expected to stay in place until Friday morning.

Strong winds could damage roofs and bring down trees and power lines, potentially causing power outages.

The latest warning comes mere weeks after the state experienced the worst flooding in 20 years after being hit by several winter storms called kona lows or kona storms.

In an interview with Hawaii Public Radio, Honolulu Mayor Blangiardi expressed concern about the compounding impact of additional rain following recent storms.

"I am truly hopeful that the public realizes they have a responsibility in this, too," he said. "And if people don't feel safe, they should leave early and not wait for a storm to turn."