Honolulu is already getting pushed around by the latest kona storm, as light rain and fog slide over the city and cut visibility to about 4 miles near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Gusty southerly winds are making for a bumpy afternoon commute. Oʻahu remains under a Flood Watch through Saturday afternoon, March 14, and a High Wind Warning through Sunday morning, March 15, with forecasters calling for frequent heavy showers and scattered thunderstorms. Some of those storms could dump several inches of rain in a short burst and pack damaging wind gusts.
What To Expect Today
On-and-off showers and thunderstorms will hang around through the day, with highs near 78°F and lows around 73°F tonight as south winds run in the 20 mph range. According to the National Weather Service, some storms could bring new rainfall totals topping 4 inches along with intense downpours that trigger flash flooding. Those quick hits of heavy rain can slash visibility and overwhelm low-lying streets in minutes, so drivers should be ready for sudden slowdowns and stop-and-go traffic when the stronger bands roll through.
Closures and Shelter Info
City and state officials have shut down parks, paused overnight camping, and opened several emergency shelters across Oʻahu for residents who need a safe, dry place to ride this out. Local agencies are updating shelter locations and listing which facilities are closed; you can find the latest details via Spectrum News. For a deeper look at how this kona setup has evolved over the past few days, see our earlier coverage on how this kona storm has developed.
Winds and Marine Impacts
The High Wind Warning signals sustained southerly winds of 20 to 30 mph, with widespread gusts into the 40s. The strongest thunderstorms could punch out gusts up to 70 mph, especially along mountain slopes and exposed ridges. Out on the water, mariners should expect steep, fast-building seas and lousy visibility in heavier showers, so small craft are better off staying tied up or tucked into sheltered harbors. On land, residents should be prepared for fallen branches, spotty power outages, and tricky driving for high-profile vehicles.
Travel and Safety Tips
Give yourself extra time to get around, and do not try to drive through standing water, since just a few inches can stall or even move a vehicle. Bring loose outdoor items indoors or secure them, keep phones and flashlights charged, and have an emergency kit ready in case the lights go out. If you need to head to a shelter, check local lists for current locations, and reserve 911 for life-threatening emergencies only.
