The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Fire Weather Watch for the upcoming Friday and Saturday, due to forecasts of dry, windy conditions that may create critical fire hazards across several regions. This alert affects leeward areas of all Hawaiian Islands, particularly focusing on the interior sections of Oahu and the northern parts of the Big Island.
In detail, weather predictions indicate that high pressure moving east of the islands will generate heightened winds and lower humidity levels. Winds are expected to range from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 35 mph. Relative humidity levels may drop to as low as 40 to 45 percent during this period.
The Fire Weather Watch will be in effect from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon, with the greatest fire weather risks anticipated during the late morning to afternoon hours when humidity levels are typically at their lowest. With these conditions, any fires that may ignite could spread rapidly, making outdoor burning highly inadvisable.
Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution. The National Weather Service stresses that it is crucial to stay informed and to listen for any further updates or the possibility of Red Flag Warnings. For additional guidance on protecting life and property from wildfires, individuals can visit the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization website.
As the environment gears up for these challenging fire weather conditions, preparedness and vigilance will be key in mitigating risks and ensuring safety across the impacted areas.