HONOLULU — Trade winds are expected to ease slightly by Friday following a stretch of moderate to locally breezy conditions across the Hawaiian Islands, according to the latest update from the National Weather Service (NWS).
Windward areas may see light and scattered showers today, while leeward regions remain mostly dry aside from brief afternoon rainfall over the South Kona slopes.
A shift in the weather pattern is anticipated over the weekend as a weak surface trough—currently located about 550 miles east of the Big Island—moves into the region by Saturday afternoon. The system could bring increased showers, particularly to the eastern islands. Trade winds are forecast to strengthen again early next week, though forecasters are monitoring developing disturbances in the tropics.
Aviation conditions remain generally favorable, with VFR (Visual Flight Rules) expected across most areas. However, AIRMET Tango remains in effect for moderate low-level turbulence, especially on the lee side of mountainous terrain during the morning hours.
On the water, a high-pressure ridge north of the islands continues to drive moderate to strong trade winds, prompting a Small Craft Advisory through this evening for the typically windier channels near Maui County and the Big Island. Conditions are expected to ease slightly Friday as the ridge weakens. South and southwest swells will maintain elevated surf along south and west-facing shores, with additional long-period swells expected next week.
Residents in coastal areas of Maui County and the Big Island should be alert for minor flooding due to peak monthly high tides and elevated sea levels, the NWS warned.
Fire weather concerns remain in place as dry and breezy conditions continue to raise wildfire risk in leeward and interior regions. Moisture arriving over the weekend may help ease the threat somewhat, but the return of strong trade winds next week could renew concerns.
