Honolulu residents can expect brief showers and gusty trade winds today as an old frontal boundary moves across the islands. "Shower activity will be limited from Wednesday onward after the remnant cloud band passes through the state," with winds shifting to a lighter east-southeasterly breeze and a sea breeze pattern through the Christmas weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
A high-pressure system drifting eastward will weaken winds and change their direction from east to southeast, contributing to drier conditions and higher temperatures. This is due to large-scale subsidence, "or stabilizing downward vertical motions that will warm and dry the air over each island," limiting cloud growth and supporting a drier period for the islands, as reported by the National Weather Service.
A Small Craft Advisory is in effect until 6 AM HST on Wednesday due to winds and seas, affecting waters around Maui County and the Big Island. Trade winds are increasing surf on east-facing shores, and a moderate north-northeast swell late Wednesday may require a High Surf Advisory, with "Surf along north facing shores could approach the High Surf Advisory level during the peak." A Marine Weather Statement may be needed for harbor surges in Kahului and Hilo. Rain is expected to be minimal over the holiday weekend, but showers could increase statewide on Sunday, especially in mountain and interior areas, as stated by the National Weather Service.
