Honolulu is seeing a bit of everything weather-wise as high pressure systems and a weakening front make their presence known across the state. According to the latest from the National Weather Service's Honolulu forecast, moderate to breezy trade winds are expected to stick around through late next week due to a consistent pattern of high pressure systems northwest and north of the islands.
For windward areas, particularly around Kauai, the weekend forecast is holding onto showers. But not to forget the leeward communities, they'll see a few showers as well, as scattered rain persists. "A front in the vicinity of Kauai will keep windward areas showery today, with drier conditions across the remainder of the state," says the NWS Honolulu update.
Looking ahead, the old frontal remnants are forecast to meander back into the Hawaiian atmosphere early next week, possibly upping the dampness factor with a "more typical or slightly wetter than normal trade wind pattern," according to NWS's discussion. Lucky for the islanders, the high clouds are peacing out southeast of the Big Island later today, giving way to clearer skies eventually.
In terms of visibility, we had a little visit from Volcanic smOG (VOG), but trade winds are gearing up to do their part. They will disperse the thick Vog that was clouding up the smaller islands, clearing out that dense haze that reduced visibility. The NWS points out, "Vog concentrations will decrease across the region through the weekend as trade winds return."
Marine warnings also speckle the forecast, with rough seas anticipated thanks to fresh to strong trade winds. "Small Craft Advisory conditions are expected across most Hawaiian waters and may persist into Monday," the NWS cautions. As for surf, it's not a bad time to be a big-wave chaser with waves along north-facing shores expected to hit warning levels fueled by a sizable north-northwest swell.
And for those who prefer keeping their feet on solid ground, forewarned is forearmed; the local advisories include a High Surf Warning for multiple areas, including Niihau and the Oahu North Shore. The NWS list of Watches/Warnings/Advisories spells it out in clear detail, so make sure to check that out before embarking on any offshore expeditions or beach outings this weekend.
