The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory for the Big Island’s Ka’u and Kohala districts and summits through 6 p.m.
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory for the Big Island’s Ka’u and Kohala districts and summits through 6 p.m.
The service forecast easterly winds of 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Specific areas included in the advisory are: the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits above 8,000 feet in elevation, the Ka’u district and the corridor between Waimea, Kawaihae and Waikoloa in Kohala.
The winds will likely be stronger when associated with showers, high terrain and/or mountain slopes, according to the service.
The advisory is the result of a robust high pressure system to the north of the state that could bring gusty, strong trades to areas of the Big Island, according to the service. The winds are expected to subside this evening.
A wind advisory means winds of at least 30 mph with gusts of 50 mph are forecast. Motorists are advised to use extra caution because winds this strong can bring down tree branches and make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.