A wind advisory remains in effect for interior and southern areas of Hawaii Island through 6 p.m. Sunday.
A wind advisory remains in effect for interior and southern areas of Hawaii Island through 6 p.m. Sunday.
Strong northeasterly winds will blanket the state through Sunday afternoon before gradually subsiding. The winds will accelerate down the leeward slopes, over ridges and through mountain passes producing very powerful gusts, according to forecasters.
National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu are calling for northeast winds around 25 mph to 35 mph with localized gusts reaching 50 mph for interior and southern areas of the island.
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.