Severe Weather Threat Approaches Hawaii With Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Expected Next Week
A complex weather system is tracking toward Hawaii, bringing a threat of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential flash flooding from Tuesday through at least Thursday, Hawaii News Now reported. First Alert Weather Days have been declared for Oahu, Maui County, and the Big Island as deep tropical moisture moves over the state.
Current forecast models indicate the heaviest rainfall will likely target areas between Oahu and the Big Island. Meteorologists warn that the atmosphere will become extremely moist and unstable, creating conditions capable of producing torrential downpours and organized thunderstorms with damaging winds. Flood watches are expected to be issued statewide as the system draws closer.
Before the arrival of the unsettled weather, moderate northeasterly trade winds are bringing passing showers mainly to windward and mountain areas, particularly overnight and during early morning hours. Kauai is experiencing additional showers as an old front stalls over the region, while Maui and the Big Island deal with lingering moisture.
Marine Conditions and Surf Forecast
Ocean conditions are shifting alongside the incoming atmospheric changes. Surf along north-facing shores is building as a new north-northwest swell arrives, pushing wave heights closer to seasonal levels through the weekend. A secondary northwest swell is scheduled to arrive Monday, keeping surf elevated along north- and west-facing shores into the middle of next week. Meanwhile, south-facing shores will see smaller, overlapping swells, and east-facing surf remains generally small.
First Alert Weather Day coverage starts today at 4pm … threats will linger through early Saturday! pic.twitter.com/LGXts6toB5
Trade winds will gradually weaken Sunday into Monday, reducing wind-driven showers before the tropical moisture plume arrives on Tuesday. Forecasters note that considerable uncertainty remains regarding exact rainfall totals and the precise locations that will experience the most severe storm activity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Weather Threat
When will the heavy rain and thunderstorms arrive in Hawaii?
Deep tropical moisture is expected to move over the state starting Tuesday, with the highest concern for heavy rain and thunderstorms running from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday, potentially lingering into Thursday.
Which islands are currently under First Alert Weather Days?
First Alert Weather Days have been declared for Oahu, Maui County, and the Big Island. Current forecast models suggest the heaviest rainfall will likely occur somewhere between Oahu and the Big Island.
What marine conditions are expected over the weekend?
Surf along north-facing shores is building due to a new north-northwest swell arriving tonight and Sunday, with another northwest swell expected to arrive on Monday to keep surf elevated through the middle of next week.
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