The weather in Hawaii is currently under the influence of post-tropical cyclone activity, with the remnants of Gilma bringing a smattering of showers to the islands, particularly Kauai and Niihau. According to the Honolulu Forecast Office of the National Weather Service, this morning saw enhanced shower activity, which is predicted to clear up as the day progresses. However, there's more moisture on the horizon as remnants of Hector are expected to introduce another round of showers starting tonight and carrying on into tomorrow.
An infrared satellite snapshot from this morning highlighted the presence of Gilma's remnants north of Kauai, drifting northwestward. The repercussions of this weakened system were felt in the form of low clouds and scattered showers making their way toward the western islands. A forthcoming low-level trough related to Hector's remnants is poised to deliver "another brief bump in clouds and shower activity," as described by NWS-Honolulu. These conditions are mainly affecting windward and mountain regions, with the general wind forecast indicating a combination of light trade winds and local sea breezes through tomorrow.
The dual presence of the dissipating Gilma and an incoming trough from Hector has led to a weakened pressure gradient over the islands, reducing winds and allowing localized sea breezes to push inland. This will likely result in cloud build-up with potential for brief showers across various parts of the islands, even in leeward locales. NWS-Honolulu predicts "drier and cooler feeling trade wind breezes" returning to the state from tomorrow night into Monday, with stronger trade winds ushering in a more stable air mass early next week.
For aviation, the passing remnants of Gilma are still significant as they raise the possibility for SHRA (showers) and marginal visual flight rules (MVFR) conditions across the region, especially over leeward areas. An AIRMET Sierra is currently in place for mountain obscuration for parts of Molokai, Oahu, and Kauai due to showers and low cloud ceilings. Marine impacts include transitioning winds, with lighter variable winds in the west of Hawaii turning into stronger easterlies in the east as the trade winds pick back up post-Gilma. Those easterly shores should expect to see a modest increase in surf as the trades return, while other shores remain relatively calm.
For island residents and visitors, there are currently no watches, warnings, or advisories in place, implying that the weather, while somewhat variable due to the remnants of tropical activities, should not pose major hazards.
