Kona winds return to islands Friday

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The trades winds are being replaced as kona winds take over. By Sunday through much of next week, southwesterly winds will strengthen. A weakending cold front is expected to increase rain chances across the board. Wetter conditions will last much of next week.

Today & Tomorrow:

  • Weakening Trades: Trade winds will decrease in strength and shift direction towards the southeast.
  • Hybrid Weather: Expect a mix of:
    • Windward Showers: Limited showers on the windward sides.
    • Leeward Breezes: Isolated showers due to sea breezes in sheltered areas.

This Weekend:

  • Continued Trade Weakening: Trades will further weaken and shift to southerly and then southwesterly directions.
  • Increased Breezes: More widespread land and sea breezes.
    • Daytime Clouds & Showers: Limited showers and clouds in leeward and interior areas during the day.
    • Nighttime Clearing: Mostly clear skies at night.

Next Week:

  • Mid-Week Front: A cold front will arrive by mid-week.
    • Increased Rainfall: Expect some beneficial rain.
    • Stronger Winds: Breezy north-northeasterly winds, especially in the western part of the state.
  • Continued Showers: Rain chances will persist due to the front and additional moisture.

Volcanic Activity:

  • Big Island Hotspot: Volcanic activity continues at Halemaumau Crater.
  • Vog Potential:
    • Tonight/Tomorrow: Vog may increase across some smaller islands as winds shift.
    • Big Island Impact: Vog will primarily affect portions of the Big Island and nearby waters.