Honolulu is back under a breezy trade-wind regime Tuesday, with scattered windward showers to kick off the morning and a high near 77°F on tap. Northeast winds will crank up through the day, with gusts pushing into the 20s to 30s mph and a low near 67°F tonight. Beachgoers and small-boat operators should brace for rough surf and choppy seas by this afternoon.
Afternoon Winds And Surf
Northeast winds are expected to run around 8 to 22 mph with gusts as high as 31 mph, strongest along exposed ridges and in channels. Scattered showers should ease up before midday, with skies turning mostly sunny later in the afternoon.
A High Surf Warning remains in effect for most north and east facing shores through 6 PM HST, and the Small Craft Advisory has been expanded to cover all coastal waters through 6 AM Wednesday. These marine and wind alerts come from the National Weather Service Honolulu, according to NWS Honolulu.
Coastal Hazards And Safety
The large north-northeast swell will send in steep, powerful sets and could cause overwash on low-lying windward roads, with forecasters specifically flagging Keaukaha east of Hilo. Heavy surges may affect north-facing harbors such as Hilo and Kahului. Lifeguards and harbor masters may restrict access, so expect possible closures and delays near the water. Avoid coastal drives during the peak swell and stay well back from the water line.
As drenching rains and dangerous surf were highlighted yesterday, keep an eye on local harbor updates if you plan to be on or near the water.
Plan For Your Day
If you have outdoor plans this afternoon, secure loose items, watch for gusty crosswinds on exposed commutes, and consider postponing nonessential ocean activities until conditions calm down. Trades should ease by Thursday, with winds veering southeasterly by Friday and highs nudging into the upper 70s to around 80°F by the weekend, so conditions are expected to mellow after midweek.
