A wind advisory has been issued for the Big Island summits through 6 p.m. today.
A wind advisory has been issued for the Big Island summits through 6 p.m. today.
The National Weather Service in Honolulu forecast west winds of 45 to 55 mph with gusts topping 70 mph for the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea summits above the 8,000-foot elevation.
The Mauna Kea Access road was closed to motorists as of 8:50 a.m. today because of high winds. The current temperature at the summit was 30.1 degrees.
A wind advisory means that winds of at least 45 mph and gusts over 55 mph are forecast, according to the service. Winds this strong can bring down tree branches. Motorists are advised to use extra caution or to postpone travel until the winds subside.