Rain, wind, snow hit Hawaii

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HONOLULU, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- A flood advisory and flash flood warning was declared for the Hawaiian island of Oahu, as rainfall of almost 2 inches per hour was reported Friday.

The National Weather Service issued the notices as forecasters said widespread wind and showers were expected and warned people to avoid streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas. An advisory said winds of up to 40 mph were expected, prompting a high surf advisory on Oahu's eastern shore.

A winter storm warning is also in effect for higher elevations on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, where up to 1 foot of snow is expected by Friday night, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported.

Flood waters Thursday closed roads, stranded motorists and washed away a cottage on the island of Maui, the newspaper said.

Maui Fire Department spokesman Lee Maniaga said eight homes were evacuated and three vehicles were stranded by floodwaters on the island's north shore, adding fire fighters responded to calls for rescue throughout the day.

On the island of Kauai, rescue efforts continue after a hiker was swept into the Pacific Ocean while attempting to cross a stream Thursday, and 50 others are stranded in the Hanakapiai Valley by the swollen stream, KGMB-TV, Honolulu, reported.