Honolulu is preparing for a shift in weather patterns as a cold front approaches from the northwest. According to the National Weather Service, winds are expected to shift to a more southerly direction by Wednesday, bringing an increase in showers, particularly in the western part of the state. While conditions have remained predominantly dry, the approaching frontal system signals a change that residents should be aware of, especially as it is expected to linger and transition into a warm front by Friday.
According to an NWS forecast, Honolulu has been experiencing light and variable winds, but a transition to moderate trade winds is expected as a high-pressure system moves northeast. However, this brief shift will be interrupted by a new cold front tonight and into tomorrow, weakening the trades once again. As a result, sea breezes will become more common over the western islands by tomorrow afternoon. Winds will ease further tomorrow night, followed by a return of light to moderate trades on Tuesday as a new high builds eastward to the north of the state. A particularly strong front is predicted to arrive Wednesday, shifting winds to a southerly direction. Combined with rising inversion heights, this system will likely lead to increased shower activity in certain regions.
The aviation sector will also face impacts from this change in weather, with a mix of easterly winds and sea breezes expected to manipulate cloud cover over mountainous and interior areas of the islands. Although no AIRMETs are currently in effect, pilots should stay vigilant for any updates as conditions develop. Mariners aren’t spared either, with high-pressure north of the islands prompting moderate trade winds until the front’s arrival on Monday impacts wind speeds and sea states, prompting advisories for those at sea…