Honolulu woke up to light rain and soupy gray skies on Monday, April 20, as a batch of showers slid across the metro and left behind a humid start to the week. Forecasters are calling for a high near 84°F and an overnight low near 74°F, with scattered thunderstorms possible this afternoon. Brief, heavy downpours could quickly slick up the roads, so a light rain jacket and a little extra commute time would not be a bad idea.
Scattered Storms Today
Before sunrise, radar picked up a weakening cluster of thunderstorms drifting toward the western islands, and that fading system is keeping rain chances elevated through Monday afternoon. According to the National Weather Service Honolulu, the chance of precipitation today is around 40 percent. Most areas should see light totals under a tenth of an inch, but localized heavier bursts are still on the table inside stronger cells. The most persistent showers will favor western and windward slopes from late morning into the afternoon hours.
Winds, Surf and Marine Impacts
East to east-northeast breezes of about 5 to 9 mph are expected through Monday, with winds forecast to veer and strengthen later this week as the ridge north of the islands rebuilds. Trades return Wednesday night into Thursday, with northeast winds increasing into the 10 to 21 mph range and gusts reaching into the mid 20s by Thursday and Friday, conditions that will make offshore waters choppy. A small northwest swell arrives tonight, and a moderate north-northeast swell builds into Tuesday and Wednesday, boosting surf along north and west facing shores through midweek.
Plan Ahead
There are no watches or warnings posted this morning, but lightning in any stronger cells can quickly turn outdoor events unsafe, and fast-forming puddles may slow some morning drive times. Boaters and beachgoers should check local harbor and surf reports before heading out; for a look back at the pattern that delivered gusty winds and spotty showers earlier this week, see our coverage of blustery trades and boat rattling seas.
