Honolulu woke up warm and breezy Wednesday, with temperatures in the upper 60s and east-northeast trade winds already nudging into the 20 mph range. The day is headed for a mostly sunny afternoon high near 77°F, but those fast-moving trades will sling scattered showers into windward and mauka neighborhoods. Beachgoers and small-boat operators should be ready for rough surf and gusty winds along exposed shorelines through the afternoon.
Afternoon Trades Turn Blustery
East-northeast trade winds are forecast to blow around 15 to 20 mph today, with gusts up to 28 mph near ridgelines and exposed coastal roads. That means a noticeably bumpy ride on the Pali and other windward commutes, and high-profile vehicles may feel a solid shove on open bridges and highways. These wind details come from the National Weather Service Honolulu.
Marine And Beach Impacts
A High Surf Advisory is still posted for most north and east-facing shores through this afternoon, with elevated surf and strong surges possible in north-facing harbors such as Hilo and Kahului. Many nearshore waters remain under Small Craft Advisories, making for choppy and potentially hazardous conditions for recreational boats, so it is wise to avoid crossing exposed channels and to seek more sheltered harbors when possible. Lifeguards and harbor officials may close ramps or beaches if conditions worsen, and everyone is urged to stay off wet rocks and sea cliffs near high tide.
Weekend Outlook
Moderate trades should hang on through Thursday, then ease Friday and Saturday as a weakening front approaches from the west and briefly nudges boundary-layer winds to the east-southeast. Most forecast guidance keeps the deeper moisture to the west, but a few models still try to push higher rain chances over the western islands from Sunday into Monday, so a modest uptick in showers is possible then. Forecasters note that models are not in full agreement on timing or coverage, and they point readers to the NWS Area Forecast Discussion for more detail.
What To Do
Secure loose outdoor items, tie down patio furniture, and give high-profile vehicles extra space on exposed roads where gusts will be strongest. If you are planning time on the water, consider holding off until Small Craft Advisories are dropped, and check local harbor notices before launching. Keep an eye on official county channels and National Weather Service updates for any changes to advisories.
