Trade winds are expected to keep bringing showers to the windward and mauka areas of the Hawaiian Islands, with occasional rain reaching leeward regions, especially at night and early morning. This weather pattern is likely to continue over the next few days, according to The National Weather Service's latest forecast for Honolulu.
The recent weather observations have revealed that rainfall in the past 6 hours ranged from 0.01 to 0.32 inches, with Oahu receiving the highest totals; the leeward sides remained the driest, the radar and satellite opinions showing scattered clouds and light to moderate showers moving from east to west early this morning and touching on the variability of the island's climate, the statement obtained by the NWS details how a stronger inversion has been noted over the Big Island at around 6,000 feet. Meanwhile, the available moisture in the atmosphere is said to be "near to slightly above normal," foretelling a persistence of showers along the windward areas and a slight downtick in coverage later in the day, followed by another pickup overnight.
For those taking to the skies, pilots are advised that the prevalent moderate to locally breezy trade winds will continue to usher in low ceilings and showers to windward and mauka areas, although VFR conditions are predominantly expected; an AIRMET Sierra remains in effect for all windward areas into the early morning hours according to the NWS. Mariners, too, are reminded that a Small Craft Advisory is in place for specific areas around Maui County and the Big Island until early Sunday due to persisting moderate to strong trade winds.
Beachgoers may notice smaller south swells this week, but a stronger swell is expected to peak on Monday. East shore surf should hit seasonal levels, while north shore waves will remain small. Higher tides, about 0.5 feet above normal, and the full moon could cause minor coastal flooding, with a Coastal Flood Statement in effect.
Starting Saturday night, increased tropical moisture will bring more showers and possibly thunderstorms to offshore waters through Monday night. A drying trend is expected for the latter half of next week, but another wave of moisture may follow along the southern border of the islands, the NWS advises to stay alert for updates as conditions change.
