UPDATE: Honolulu is bracing for a wave of typical rainy weather, with **heavy rainfall** expected to impact the area from **Saturday into early next week**. The **National Weather Service** (NWS) has issued urgent warnings for both mariners and aviators as the weather pattern evolves due to a **dissipating front west of Kauai**.
Residents can expect **southeasterly winds** to gradually strengthen today, pushing showers toward the **east and southeast slopes** of the islands. Although trade winds will ease slightly, the shift in winds indicates possible pockets of enhanced rainfall. However, no significant moisture sources have been detected in the latest forecasts, leaving some uncertainty about conditions by mid-week.
Aviation alerts have been issued, warning of potential **moderate turbulence** and **low-level wind shear** affecting **PHOG** (Kahului Airport) this afternoon. Despite generally favorable VFR conditions, pilots are advised to remain vigilant.
For mariners, a **Small Craft Advisory** is currently in effect until early **Saturday** for waters around **Maui County** and the **Big Island**. Forecasts predict a **moderate to large northwest swell**, leading to combined seas exceeding **10 feet**. Surf conditions along northern and western shores may prompt a **High Surf Advisory** due to the incoming swell, according to the NWS.
Authorities are also warning about the potential for **minor coastal flooding** during early morning peak tides, as elevated water levels coincide with peak monthly tides. The east shore surf is expected to become choppier as trade winds strengthen.
Despite these weather advisories, the NWS reassures that critical fire weather conditions are unlikely this week in Honolulu. With relative humidity levels remaining close to seasonal norms and winds only increasing to moderate strength, fire risk remains below critical thresholds.
Officials are closely monitoring the situation as these forecasts are subject to change. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions and heed warnings from the NWS as the situation develops.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
