Honolulu residents can expect a slight respite from the damp conditions this afternoon. A forecast from the National Weather Service in Honolulu indicates that while lighter trades and morning showers are set to drench portions of the state today, drier skies are slated for later in the day. According to NWS Honolulu, "Drier conditions should develop by afternoon, with a few showers developing over leeward terrain with the assistance of localized sea breezes."

The trade winds maintaining a moderate pace today will persist, affected by a ridge of high pressure situated north of the islands. With this topographical influence remaining nearly stationary, we may see sea breezes kick up in leeward areas, making for a slightly dynamic weather pattern. However, NWS reports show that as the ridge lifts northward late today through this weekend, "trades to gradually increase to moderate and breezy levels by Sunday," remaining steady through much of the upcoming week.

Aviation interests can anticipate mainly VFR conditions across TAF sites. NWS Honolulu's aviation discussion points to "light to moderate easterly trade winds" continuing its rhythm, allowing for the predictable cycle of nightly land breezes and daily sea breezes. However, pilots should watch for "brief MVFR ceilings and visibility will be possible in showers," especially around smaller islands' windward sections. Mountain obscuration above 2500 feet continues to be a concern, with an AIRMET Sierra in effect for several areas.

Mariners aren't left out of the advisory mix, with the steady climb of trades expected to warrant a Small Craft Advisory as early as tonight, particularly near Maui County and the Big Island. The NWS has advised that the "strongest winds are expected over the windier waters and channels." On the surf front, south-facing shores hold onto swelling waves through Monday because of a medium period south-southwest swell. However, "a downward trend is expected Tuesday through midweek," with north and west-facing shores looking to catch a bump from a small, unseasonal north-northwest swell late Sunday into Monday.

Coastal flooding, due to a combo of higher-than-predicted water levels and a solid south swell, could see minor impacts through the weekend. NWS highlights "the best chance for coastal impacts will occur during the afternoon hours around the peak daily high tide cycles." As for now, no watches, warnings, or advisories beyond these have been issued for the region.