Rainy pattern may be ending

By Jan TenBruggencate
Advertiser Science Writer

The National Weather Service sees a respite for Hawai'i's beach crowd this weekend — mostly sunny weather and tradewinds after a long series of dark skies and drenchings linked to low-pressure systems blowing in from the west.

Chief meteorologist Jim Weyman said it's might be at least the beginning of the end of the wet pattern.

"It would not surprise me if we had another (low-pressure system). In some past years, the wet season has continued into June. But I hope it's weakening," Weyman said.

Weather Service hydrologist Kevin Kodama said that any future lows should be lighter than the last few.

"At some point, climate will take over. The troughs aren't going to be as intense," he said.

Kaua'i and O'ahu had sunny skies and variable winds to light trades yesterday. Maui and the Big Island were still under heavy overcast, but they were expected to see clearing tomorrow.

The Hokule'a, whose voyage to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands has been on hold due to weather since May 8, is now scheduled to leave Hanalei Bay on Kaua'i Saturday.

Reach Jan TenBruggencate at (808) 245-3074 or jant@honoluluadvertiser.com.