Honolulu is waking up mostly cloudy and muggy this morning, with temperatures hovering in the mid-70s. Scattered showers are on tap through Monday, May 18, 2026, and afternoon highs should climb into the mid-80s. East-northeast trade winds will run a steady 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to about 28 mph, so ridgelines and exposed shores will feel plenty blustery. Late-afternoon high tides will add to the drama, raising the threat of isolated minor coastal flooding along vulnerable shoreline spots.
Coastal Flooding Risk During Late-Afternoon Tides
The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Statement, with peak tides this afternoon forecast near 2.5 to 3.0 feet MLLW. That is just high enough to push water onto normally dry beaches and some low-lying coastal roads. According to NWS Honolulu, potential impacts include minor coastal erosion, saltwater flooding around boat ramps, and short-lived roadway ponding. Residents near the shore are urged to move vehicles and valuables to higher ground and to skip driving through any flooded stretches of road, no matter how shallow they look.
A Small Craft Advisory is also posted for Maalaea Bay, Pailolo Channel, Alenuihaha Channel, and several Big Island leeward and southeast waters until 6 AM HST Wednesday, May 20, 2026, so boaters will want to think twice before heading out for a casual spin.
Winds And The Week Ahead
Forecasters expect trade winds to crank up later this week as a high pressure system north of the islands tightens the pressure gradient. That setup points to drier weather but stronger winds by Thursday and Friday, with gusts that could reach Wind Advisory levels in some terrain-downstream areas. The stronger trades will mean choppier seas and rough, wind-driven surf, especially along east-facing shores, so ocean plans may need a backup option, according to Hawaii News Now.
Plan Ahead
Keep a compact umbrella within reach, build in extra time if your commute hugs the shoreline, and steer clear of low-lying coastal routes during the late-afternoon high tides. If you have small craft tied up, double-check mooring lines and delay any nonessential launches while the Small Craft Advisory is in effect. Before you head to the beach or out on the water, monitor local emergency channels and the National Weather Service for the latest real-time updates.
