Powerful cold front could bring strong Kona winds, thunderstorms late Sunday and Monday

The National Weather Service in Honolulu issued a special weather statement Friday afternoon in preparation for the arrival of a vigorous cold front that will impact the entire state late this weekend and Monday.

The powerful cold front is forecast to sweep across the state Monday. Southwest winds, or Kona winds, will increase ahead of the front Sunday, with gusty conditions initially developing across windward communities, as well as any locations over and downwind of terrain. These strengthening winds could become damaging Sunday night and Monday.

Impacts could include roof damage, downed trees and power outages.

Thunderstorms also might develop as early as Sunday, with some potentially becoming strong to severe along and ahead of the front Sunday night and Monday. Any thunderstorms during this time frame could be capable of producing damaging wind gusts and hail over any portion of the state.

Heavy rainfall is expected along the front and during thunderstorms. At this time, chances for widespread flash flooding do not appear to be high; however, leeward communities could experience experience a period of heavy rainfall and potential flood impacts, especially on Maui and the Big Island later Sunday into Monday.

Additionally, the powerful low pressure system driving the front will generate a large northwest swell that will affect the islands. Homeowners, beachgoers and boaters should prepare for high surf and significant wave runup, with possible coastal impacts along exposed north- and west-facing shores.

The National Weather Service said it’s too early at this time to be specific about the details of the timing or strength of this weather event. The agency will continue to monitor the situation.

Remain alert for later statements and possible watches or warnings associated with this weather system as the forecast and details become more clear. Stay tuned to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio, your local media and internet sources for the latest information.