The state is under a flash flood watch from this evening through late Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

“;Heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop as a strong upper-level low moves in from the north late Tuesday night,”; the weather service said yesterday.

“;The upper low will remain near the islands through tomorrow and Thursday, continuing the threat for flash flooding.”;

A watch means that conditions could develop that can lead to flash flooding. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall that could cause flash flooding.

The weather service warns campers and hikers to pay attention to later forecasts. It also advised to stay away from creeks, streams and other flood-prone areas.

“;Remember that it does not have to be raining where you are for flash flooding to occur,”; the advisory said.

The weather service also issued a winter storm watch from tomorrow morning through Thursday morning for Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea above 12,000 feet.

“;The upper low will bring much colder air to higher elevations, along with a chance for heavy snowfall, lightning, strong winds with blowing and drifting snow, and bitterly cold wind chills to the summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea,”; forecasters said.

A winter storm watch means there is a potential for significant snow accumulations. Travel to the summits might become dangerous tomorrow.

Travelers should check the latest forecasts and road closure notices before heading up to the summits, the weather service said.