Honolulu spent Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in classic trade wind mode, with mid 70s readings at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and a daytime high near 81°F on tap. East-northeast trades have cranked up into the mid 20 mph range in gusts, and isolated overnight and early morning showers are favoring windward and mauka slopes.
Coastal Flooding Has Beaches Creeping Inland
A Coastal Flood Statement from the National Weather Service warns of minor nuisance coastal flooding at and around the early morning high tides through Wednesday morning. Forecasters say to expect saltwater to reach normally dry beaches and low-lying roads, so drivers are urged to avoid flooded streets and move valuables and vehicles to higher ground before the tide edges in.
Rougher Seas And Small Craft Alerts
Small Craft Advisories remain posted for windier channels and windward waters into Wednesday as trades hold at moderate to locally breezy levels. The National Weather Service cautions that choppy east-facing surf and 15 to 25 kt winds, roughly 15 to 29 mph, will make conditions hazardous for small boats. Boaters are advised to secure mooring lines, think twice about heading out in exposed conditions, and avoid launching from spots that take the full brunt of the trades.
What To Watch And How To Play It Safe
The most noticeable nuisance flooding is likely around the early morning peak tides each day, so coastal commuters may want backup routes if they rely on low-lying roads. Expect seawater to wash over some boat ramps and exposed shorelines. After driving or working in salty puddles, rinse vehicles and equipment, tie down canoes and other beach gear before the wind and water team up on them, and follow any county or lifeguard closure notices if they go up.
Looking Ahead
Later this week, trades are expected to ease a bit and bend more out of the southeast, which should keep daytime highs near 81°F and limit widespread rain through the weekend. Forecasters are watching an approaching front that could bring more unsettled and wetter weather early to mid next week, so anyone planning time along the coast should keep an eye on updates.
