Thursday, May 21, 2026: Honolulu rolled into the day with mid-70s temperatures and trade winds already starting to flex. Those winds will help push afternoon highs into the low 80s, with east-northeast breezes building to full-on windy later today. Isolated showers will favor windward and mauka neighborhoods, so expect a mix of sun, gusts, and quick-hit rain. The afternoon commute could feel especially blustery, with brief passing showers lingering overnight.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Trade winds are set to strengthen through Thursday afternoon and evening, and while Oahu is not under an official Wind Advisory, gusts close to advisory levels are on the table in valley areas such as Manoa. According to NWS Honolulu, a Wind Advisory stays in effect for parts of Maui County and the Big Island through 6 a.m. HST Friday, where gusts have been clocked near 50 mph. For metro Honolulu, the forecast calls for east-northeast winds in the upper teens to low 20s, with gusts later today pushing into the 20s to 30s.
Boaters And Beachgoers
A Small Craft Advisory covers waters around Oahu through 6 a.m. HST Friday, and surf along east-facing shores could creep toward advisory levels later today. That combination means small vessels and inexperienced swimmers should use extra caution. The local outlook has highs in Honolulu topping out around 81 to 83°F, with east-northeast gusts in the 20s to 30s this afternoon, especially near exposed ridgelines and shorelines, according to the National Weather Service. If you have plans on the water, consider delaying nonessential trips and make sure loose gear is tied down.
What This Means For Your Day
On land, expect gusty crosswinds on exposed roads and near valley mouths this afternoon. Secure outdoor furniture, pop-up tents, and any lightweight items, and skip parking under trees that look the slightest bit questionable. Drivers should build in extra time, especially if you are in a high-profile vehicle that catches the wind. Outdoor events should plan for both strong trades and a few quick showers sliding through. If you are flying, check in with your airline or tour operator, since gusty trades and brief downpours can cause short delays or slow loading and unloading at HNL.
Weekend Outlook
Looking ahead, winds are expected to stay firmly in the breezy category through Saturday, with a modest easing possible on Sunday. Even with that, trade-strength winds and nighttime passing showers are likely to continue into early next week. The National Weather Service notes that the Small Craft Advisory and the potential for gusty conditions could hang on into the first half of next week, according to the NWS Honolulu discussion. If your weekend revolves around the beach or boating, it is worth keeping an eye on updates before you head out.
