You May Not Like These Predictions About Hawaii's Upcoming Rainy Season

Based on NOAA’s research, the Hawaiian Islands are set to experience above average rainfall through the traditional "wet season" — at least on the islands’ windward coasts, which have been experiencing a drought. On the islands’ leeward coasts, however, the existing drought may persist or worsen. This is especially true for Maui and Hawaii Island.

On average, the Hawaiian Islands receive just under 18 inches of rainfall annually, and experience 154 days of rainfall each year.

Predictions and averages, of course, are based on large-scale conditions and do not take into consideration the myriad of microclimates that exist throughout the state. After all, 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones can be found on Hawaii Island alone.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has reported that the current ENSO-neutral conditions — which indicates that neither El Nino and La Nina are present — are likely transitioning to a La Nina state (cool phase). The CPC issued a "La Nina Watch" for Hawaii in September, and there is a 55 to 60 percent chance of La Nina developing this fall. This forecast is thought to persist until the spring when conditions may transition back to ENSO-Neutral.

All this scientific talk too complicated for you? Same here. Bottom line: prepare for more rain than normal if you live on the islands’ windward coasts. If not, well… who knows what the leeward coasts will experience this year in terms of rainfall. We can only hope that the drought lessens.