Characteristics of Local Winds in Northwest Hawaii

Abstract

During the period 22?29 June 1978, meteorological data were collected at six stations arranged in nearly linear transection extending from the coast at Anaehoomalu, Hawaii to Waimea Airport, 25 km inland and 800 m higher. Sea breeze response to synoptic-scale weather patterns was documented. Within the six days of 24 h measurements, two disturbances embedded in the prevailing trade winds passed over the island. Three different types of sea breeze development ensued. Sea breeze variability appears to be related to both synoptic-scale cloud and wind distributions and to the thermal properties of lava surfaces situated within the transection. Days of maximum insolation corresponded to minimum sea breeze advance through the network. It is suggested that numerical models be employed with this data set to test the sensitivity of sea breezes to soil and cloud conditions.