Honolulu is bracing for a potent winter storm that experts warn could bring severe weather conditions across Hawaii. As reported by the National Weather Service (NWS) Honolulu weather forecast, the islands will experience a dramatic shift starting tomorrow night, with a low pressure system expected to bring damaging winds, potential flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms through Friday.
The aftermath of a cold front that passed south of the Big Island has left strong northerly winds in its wake, indicating an uptick in shower activity which has remained primarily over windward areas. With this system stalling and dissipating, winds are forecasted to soften and become southeasterly today. According to a statement from National Weather Service Honolulu, "The frontal remnants will lift back northward through the islands on Wednesday," but this signals the calm before the storm as "significant changes are in store for the islands beginning Wednesday night."
Travelers and residents are urged to prepare for what's to come. A Flash Flood Watch is likely to be declared across the island chain, and the Big Island Summits may see a Winter Storm Watch issued later today or tonight. Furthermore, a High Wind Watch—predicting gusts surpassing 58 mph—may soon be in effect for parts of the islands, including higher elevations on Haleakala and the Big Island, as corroborated by the National Weather Service update.
Aviation and marine activities will also face interruptions. Airing caution, the NWS has maintained AIRMET Sierra for mountain obscuration and AIRMET Tango for low-level turbulence in specific regions. While the currently breezy conditions are expected to decrease, the impending low pressure system might lead to gale-force wind gusts, heavy rain, and brusque thunderstorms that sailing vessels would do well to avoid. A Small Craft Advisory remains effective for certain areas around Maui and the Big Island until later today, indicating unsettled waters and potential navigational hazards.
The storm prompts a sigh of relief for firefighters, as "conditions favorable for critical fire behavior are not expected during the forecast period," a silver lining considering the otherwise turbulent weather forecast, according to National Weather Service. The awaited shift to much cooler and drier weather will reportedly make its arrival Friday night, offering a respite in the form of a clear weekend and start of the upcoming week.
