Skies were mostly clear around Daniel K. Inouye International Airport early this morning, but things are set to turn wetter and breezier across the entire island chain as the day wears on. Highs should still push near 80°F, with east trade winds running about 14 to 20 mph and stronger gusts expected from this afternoon into the evening. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms could bring brief heavy downpours and punchy wind gusts right around the afternoon commute.
What To Expect Friday, February 20, 2026
Scattered showers are likely before noon, then showers and a chance of thunderstorms ramp up through the afternoon. East winds are expected to gust into the upper 20s mph, and daytime highs should land close to 80°F. For more on how this pattern has been lining up, check out our earlier weekend storm alert.
Flood Watch And Marine Alerts
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Niihau and Kauai from 3 PM HST this afternoon through late tonight, and forecasters say the western islands are at the highest risk for localized flooding and isolated thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu. Heavy downpours could drop from a few tenths up to about a half inch of rain in short bursts, enough to cause ponding on roadways and push small streams over their banks. A High Surf Advisory and several Small Craft Advisories are also in effect through this evening for exposed east-facing shores and multiple coastal waters.
How To Prepare
Plan on slick roads during heavier showers, and never drive through standing water, no matter how tempting that shortcut looks. Give yourself extra time for the afternoon commute. Tie down or bring in loose outdoor items, and move vehicles and valuables off low-lying shoreline streets if you know your spot tends to flood. Mariners and beachgoers should check in with local harbor notices and lifeguard advisories before heading out.
Looking Ahead
The unsettled pattern is expected to hang around into early next week as a frontal boundary and pockets of moisture drift over the islands, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu. That setup, combined with a building long-period north-northeast swell, could push surf higher and lead to coastal overwash in vulnerable spots by Monday into Tuesday. Keep an eye on the latest forecasts and local advisories before locking in outdoor or ocean plans.
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