The Hawaiian Islands are facing severe weather through Tuesday, as a surface trough and upper-level low bring strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms, and snow to higher elevations. Residents and visitors are warned of flash flooding, high winds, and substantial snowfall.
According to Honolulu NWS, the Big Island summits face the worst conditions, with a High Wind Warning and Winter Storm Warning in effect until early Tuesday. Residents on the eastern and southeastern slopes are urged to stay alert for heavy rain and potential flooding. Winds near gale force on Monday could prompt a Wind Advisory for lower elevations along ridges and points.
The upper-level low is expected to weaken by Tuesday, bringing a reduction in thunderstorms and heavy rain. Lighter showers and cloudy skies may persist, and easterly trade winds could increase showers along windward slopes, especially on the Big Island.
Marine conditions remain hazardous, with a Gale Warning for the Alenuihaha Channel through early Tuesday and a Small Craft Advisory for surrounding waters. Mariners should use caution as gale-force winds continue. Strong easterly winds are also increasing swell, prompting a High Surf Advisory for all east-facing shores.
Pilots are advised of reduced visibility and moderate turbulence statewide. The NWS has issued AIRMETs for mountain obscuration, turbulence, and light icing. Minor coastal flooding is expected during early morning high tides, according to the ongoing Coastal Flood Statement.
While conditions will ease in the short term, forecast models from the GFS and ECMWF show a developing low-pressure system north of Hawaii that could increase showers across the western half of the state this weekend.
