Beachgoers and boaters in Honolulu should prepare for breezy conditions and elevated tides this week. The National Weather Service forecasts strong trade winds to persist through early next week, influenced by a ridge to the north and an approaching front, keeping winds and waves active.
Today's weather roulette brings a game of hit-and-miss showers for the windward and mauka regions, as a moist band moves through, causing an uptick in precipitation levels "trade winds will begin to strengthen again over the weekend as a stronger high builds north of the state in the wake of a cold front passing to north," as reported by the NWS. With these winds, some leeward areas won't be spared, potentially experiencing stray showers that drift over from the mountainous regions. However, skies will clear somewhat as drier air enters the scene following this moisture surge.
The NWS advises that "AIRMET Sierra is now in effect for mountain obscuration across north through east facing sections of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and the Big Island." Pilots can anticipate improved conditions later in the morning, but they should be prepared for moderate turbulence that's likely to persist for much of the coming week.
Mariners, heed the Small Craft Advisory in effect until 6 PM HST Saturday for all Hawaiian waters, with strong winds and elevated seas predicted. For those looking to catch a wave, be warned: north and west-facing shores will see surges in surf as a significant northwest swell rolls through, potentially reaching advisory levels. This will be the case as late as Saturday through early into the next week when the swell is expected to diminish. Meanwhile, east-facing shores will wrestle with rough waters courtesy of the steadfast trade winds, making for some challenging surfing conditions.
South-facing shores will see calm conditions with only small swells expected. As the weather turns blustery, stay informed, prepared, and safe.
