Hawaii's weather continues to be dominated by persistent trade winds and increased moisture. Islanders can expect "breezy to windy trade winds" to stick around through mid-March, with "frequent scattered showers" more likely to hit windward and mauka areas. Indications suggest a prevailing trend of partly sunny skies and robust winds, a pattern not showing signs of change anytime soon, National Weather Service in Honolulu.
As the current synoptic pattern holds, forecast discussions point to Hawaii being caught between an upper ridge to the west and an approaching northeast upper trough. Windward regions and higher terrains have already seen significant rainfall, with the likes of Mount Waialeale on Kauai and Oahu's Manoa Valley receiving over an inch since Friday. Trade winds remain the driver as a 1035 surface high positioned roughly 1,200 miles northwest of Hawaii continues to enforce a tight pressure gradient. Forecast models, as highlighted, "doesn't show much change" in the near term, maintaining this wetter-than-average pattern.
For aviators, these windy conditions mean business, with "breezy trade winds expected" across the state and advisories in place for moderate low-level turbulence likely persisting into next week. Anticipate potential low clouds and showers to temporarily lower visibility, but general flying conditions should largely maintain a VFR status, as per the National Weather Service in Honolulu.
Marine interests will have to grapple with an extended Small Craft Advisory, now running through Sunday night for all Hawaiian waters. This is due to "strong trade winds and elevated seas," likely to promote higher surf along northern and western shores. A High Surf Advisory is in force until this evening, with the possibility of extension if conditions persist. Reports from offshore buoys predict surf to decrease in the coming week. However, while south-facing shores stay small, "trades could possibly strengthen further" early into next week, potentially amplifying windswell impacts in eastern areas, NWS report.
The weather office has issued multiple advisories, including a High Surf Advisory for Niihau and the Waianae Coast until this evening. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for all Hawaiian waters until early Monday morning, urging boaters and beachgoers to stay alert. Stay updated through the National Weather Service in Honolulu.
