Honolulu residents and visitors can expect trade winds through much of the morning before shifting southeast, according to the National Weather Service. Early windward and mauka showers may briefly reduce visibility, but conditions will otherwise be mostly clear. An approaching upper-level trough could bring higher chances of heavy showers as the trades rebuild for the New Year.
Today, a ridge of high pressure will sustain trade winds. Two low-pressure systems—one east of the Dateline and another off the U.S. west coast—are helping maintain atmospheric stability, limiting significant precipitation. The NWS notes a temperature inversion between 5,500 and 6,500 feet. Kauai may see increased showers later in the week as a cold front stalls northwest of the island before moving back.
Forecasts remain uncertain as the New Year approaches. The American model suggests increased instability and potential heavy rainfall, while the European model predicts milder effects from the upper-level trough. The NWS expects trades to strengthen by Tuesday. Kauai could see a noticeable increase in showers due to the stalled cold front.
Marine conditions remain active. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect until 6 AM HST Saturday for certain surrounding waters. A medium-period north-northeast swell will maintain north shore surf through this evening before declining over the weekend. An incoming north-northwest swell is expected to bring Advisory-level surf from Monday night through Wednesday morning. East shore surf will calm as the trades weaken this weekend, according to the NWS. For detailed forecasts, visit the NWS Honolulu website.
