Hawaii County Civil Defense this morning warned residents to get prepared for heavy rains and flooding from Felicia, which could be tropical storm strength when it reaches the Big Island early next week.

The warning says residents should take time to mitigate the effects of rain, wind, and surf to their property.

“Heavy rain is forecasted early in the work week, possibly starting early Monday. Take steps now to mitigate the effects of flooding to your property,” the warning says. “While it is unknown at this time what effect wind will have on our island, as a precaution take steps now to secure loose objects outside your home.

“Wave heights are forecasted to increase on our Eastern shores today. As a precaution all County beach parks between Whittington Beach Park in Ka‘u and Laupahoehoe Beach Park in Hamakua will be closed from 2:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Hookena Beach Park in South Kona is included in these closures. Residents of coastal areas should be on the alert for sudden increases in surf heights.”