Unstable Weather Over the Hawaiian Islands

Our weather forecasters are calling for a hybrid upper level low.

This is a combination of heavy rainfall & thunderstorms.

The unstable air and trade winds will create a high pressure and rebuilds.

Local heavy showers, and isolated cases of flash flooding is forecast for Wednesday October 15 thru Friday October 17.

Winter is on the way, and we are hoping the “isolated showers” will happen in the areas experiencing extreme water supply restrictions.

The definition of forecast is : to estimate or predict a future event usually based on a result of analysis.

Weather forecasting is Hawai’i is even more challenging because of micro-climates caused by the mountains and dominant direct of the wind.

Practice aloha

The Hawaiian Islands are experiencing a period of unstable weather due to a hybrid upper-level low, which is essentially a combination of meteorological patterns that can produce heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. This system is expected to influence the islands from Wednesday, October 15 through Friday, October 17, with localized heavy showers and isolated flash flooding possible.

Weather in Hawai’i is especially challenging to predict accurately because of the islands’ diverse micro-climates. The combination of mountainous terrain, variable trade winds, and local geography means that rain may be intense in one area while other nearby regions remain dry. For residents and visitors, this can create a sense of unpredictability in daily planning.

Some key points to understand about this weather event include:

  • The upper-level low brings cooler air aloft that interacts with warm, moist trade winds, creating conditions conducive to thunderstorms and heavy showers.
  • High-pressure areas will rebuild intermittently, leading to breaks in the rainfall and potentially sunny periods between showers.
  • Flash flooding is possible in areas with steep terrain or poor drainage, especially during periods of intense localized rain.

For travelers and locals:

  • Check local forecasts frequently, as conditions can change rapidly due to micro-climatic effects.
  • Plan outdoor activities with flexibility, and be cautious around streams, rivers, and low-lying areas prone to flooding.
  • Those in areas experiencing water restrictions may benefit from the rainfall, but it is still advised to conserve water until reservoirs are adequately replenished.

Overall, while unstable weather is forecasted, the nature of Hawai’i’s micro-climates means that rainfall will vary significantly from one region to another. Practicing caution and staying informed will ensure safety and allow residents and visitors to continue enjoying the islands despite the unpredictable weather.


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