The National Weather Service in Honolulu has released a forecast outlining expected weather conditions across the Hawaiian Islands in the coming days. The forecast indicates that moderate trade winds will bring showers to windward and mauka areas through today. Increased rainfall and stronger winds are expected as a band of enhanced moisture, associated with the remnants of a dissipated front, moves across the state from tonight through Friday.
Satellite imagery from early this morning showed isolated showers primarily over Kauai County and the windward side of the Big Island. The NWS reported that winds at most observing stations were from the east to northeast at 5 to 15 mph, while some leeward locations recorded light west to northwest winds. The approaching system is not expected to produce significant impacts, such as heavy rainfall or flooding, through the beginning of the weekend.
By Sunday, forecast confidence decreases due to the potential formation of a surface low-pressure system northwest of the islands. This system could bring increased rainfall and a chance of thunderstorms through Monday night, though forecasters are awaiting greater agreement among forecast models to determine the extent of these conditions.
For maritime conditions, moderate to locally strong easterly trade winds are expected to persist through Friday, resulting in a Small Craft Advisory through this afternoon for portions of the waters surrounding Maui County and the Big Island. The marine forecast indicates that winds are likely to weaken and shift from east to southeast over the weekend. Mariners, especially those operating in north-facing harbors where moderate surges are anticipated from a building north-northeast swell, are advised to use caution.
In addition to marine advisories, peak monthly astronomical tides may result in minor coastal flooding through early next week, with increased risk along north-facing shores as the swell strengthens. A Coastal Flood Statement is in effect through Friday night to address these potential impacts. Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain aware of local warnings and advisories as conditions develop.
