Friday, June 26 started muggy in Honolulu, with mid 70s warmth, brisk east trades and spotty showers clinging to windward slopes. Most leeward neighborhoods woke up to sunshine, and temperatures are still expected to top out near 86°F this afternoon. Expect some gusty moments along exposed ridgelines and choppy conditions at east facing beaches.
Afternoon Winds and Advisories
Scattered rain showers are possible before noon, then skies should turn mostly sunny with a high near 86°F this afternoon. East northeast winds of 9 to 17 mph, with gusts around 24 mph, will keep ridgelines blustery and near shore waters on the rough side. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect until 6 PM HST Saturday, June 27 for Maalaea Bay, the Pailolo and Alenuihaha channels and waters off the Big Island, and inexperienced mariners are urged to avoid small vessels, according to the National Weather Service.
Surf And Small Craft Risks
A small, medium period south swell will ease today into Saturday, then another small long period south swell fills in Saturday and peaks Sunday, boosting south facing surf back toward seasonal averages and raising the risk of strong breaking waves and runup. That will keep exposed beaches and boat ramps choppy through the weekend. For local context on the elevated swell and shoreline impacts, see this look at the swell soaked south shore.
Looking Ahead
Moderate to breezy trade winds are forecast to hold through much of next week, with forecasters watching moist plumes that could bump up shower chances on Monday, June 29 and again on Wednesday, July 1. Expect more frequent windward and nighttime showers, with occasional leeward spillover when moisture spikes. Forecasters at the National Weather Service say the pattern will keep shower activity focused on windward and mountain areas while leaving many leeward neighborhoods drier, according to NWS Honolulu.
What To Do Today
If you have outdoor plans, treat east facing beaches as choppy and give yourself extra time for commutes that cross windward areas. Secure loose lanai furniture and small watercraft, stash a compact rain jacket for brief downpours, and check updated marine and point forecasts before heading out.
