East Hawaii sees wet, chilly weekend weather

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The weekend brought with it lows in the 60s and rainy weather.

Sony Vang, Pacific region climate officer for the National Weather Service in Honolulu said an upper level low pressure system east of Hawaii Island caused the chilly air and rain this weekend.

On Saturday, temps at Hilo International Airport saw a low of 66 and high of 79, while on Sunday, the low was 64 and high was 77.

The weekend also brought 2 inches of rain to Hilo — 0.59 inches on Saturday and 1.41 inches on Sunday.

Vang said the weather is on par for the winter period, but should be returning back to typical trade wind patterns.

According to the NWS, a strong high pressure system north northeast of Hawaii is expected to weaken Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing lighter trade winds.

A new strong high pressure system will build far north of the area, strengthening trade winds again Thursday-Saturday.

Passing showers will favor windward and mauka areas, but will depend on incoming moisture availability, according to a NWS forecast.

A high surf advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. today for east-facing shores of the Big Island.

Expect strong breaking waves, shore break and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

A small craft advisory also remains in effect until 6 p.m. today.

Email Stephanie Salmons at ssalmons@hawaiitribune-herald.com.