The National Weather Service in Honolulu has released a forecast indicating that the breezy trade winds, a typical feature for Hawaii's atmospheric demeanor, are here to stay for the coming days. According to the NWS forecast, "Ridge of high pressure will persist north of the state, maintaining breezy trades." This high-pressure ridge will linger and continue to usher in moisture at times, mainly targeting the windward and mauka regions.
Locals and visitors can expect scattered clouds and showers, mainly over windward and mauka areas. The NWS forecast noted, "an upper jet continues to stream a thin layer of cirrus across the state." While the Big Island saw little rain overnight, Kauai’s windward side was wetter. Weather models show little change through the weekend, with a steady high-pressure ridge. However, winds may shift slightly to east-southeast by mid-week.
Air travel could see minor delays as AIRMET SIERRA has been issued, warning of limited visibility from clouds and showers in windward and mauka areas. While some areas may be less ideal for flying, most skies remain mostly clear with only thin cirrus clouds, according to the NWS.
On the waters, mariners will continue to navigate moderate to locally strong trade winds for a few more days. Those piloting their crafts should exercise caution or avoid specific areas as the NWS has declared a Small Craft Advisory in effect until 6 AM HST Saturday for parts of Maui and the Big Island. For those looking to ride the waves, conditions are set to remain choppy on the east shores due to the persistent trades, while north shore surfers can expect little action. However, a new southern swell might just stir the tides from Sunday into early next week.
