Wind advisory also goes into effect Saturday afternoon

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A wind advisory goes into effect this afternoon for interior and southern areas of Hawaii Island. A high wind warning also goes into effect for areas of North, East and West Hawaii.

A wind advisory goes into effect this afternoon for interior and southern areas of Hawaii Island. A high wind warning also goes into effect for areas of North, East and West Hawaii.

Northeasterly winds will increase quickly across the state on Saturday in the wake of a weak front moving through the islands. The winds are expected to accelerate down the leeward slopes of the islands and could reach warning strength.

National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu are calling for northeast winds around 25 mph to 35 mph with localized gusts topping 50 mph for interior and southern areas of the island. The warning is effective from 4 p.m. Saturday through 6 p.m. Sunday.

The service noted the following areas in the advisory: South Point, Pahala, Bradshaw Field and Saddle Road, above the 5,000-foot elevation.

The winds are expected to peak Saturday night into Sunday morning, according to forecasters.

Winds this strong can bring down tree branches and make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

A high wind warning means that winds are expected to be at least 30 mph with gusts topping 50 mph. Motorists are advised to use extra caution.