As the islands brace for a shift in weather patterns, residents and visitors to Honolulu can expect an uptick in winds and showers. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports a stabilizing of conditions with the weakening of a surface trough that has been influencing the island's weather. Transitioning from this trough, a return to the familiar trade wind pattern ushers in showers concentrated in windward and mauka areas as of early this morning.
These conditions precede a nearby cold front, currently positioned northwest of Lihue, which is forecasted to stall across the central islands later in the day before dissipating. This change will result in strengthened northeasterly trade winds. Despite some early morning precipitation easing up, the NWS anticipates "breezy trades with periodically wet conditions into the weekend," with showers favoring the same regions. Notably, a Small Craft Advisory has been issued through tomorrow evening due to heightened winds.
For aviators, the NWS cautions that gusty winds ahead of the cold front may occasion periods of MVFR CIGS/VSBYs due to showers. This warning is substantiated by an existing AIRMET Sierra, highlighting potential temporary mountain obscurations, a condition that may expand with the front's approach. Pilots will need to be prepared for challenges presented by the variable weather pattern and maintain a close watch on forecast updates, especially if traversing regions above 2,000 ft.
Maritime activities won't be spared the effects of the weather either. With trade winds gaining strength, a Small Craft Advisory remains active for various water bodies surrounding the islands. According to NWS, "fresh to strong levels" are anticipated today, likely necessitating an extension of the advisory's duration. The advisory points watercraft to exercise caution or remain in port until conditions have been deemed more favorable.
Surfers may register a mix of excitement and caution, as conditions are predicted to amplify across north and west-facing shores due to incoming moderate-sized, medium-period swells. Such activity is expected to sustain through the weekend, leading to rough waters accentuated by the robust northeast winds—a situation mirrored along east-facing shores. Conversely, those seeking calmer waves may find them along south-facing shores where surf levels are poised to hover near seasonal averages.
These impending conditions and predictive advisories are crucial for the residents and visitors of the Hawaiian Islands, as they inform precautions and preparations. For further details and updates, individuals are encouraged to stay informed through the NWS Honolulu's weather forecasts, particularly as the situation evolves.