The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning in effect until 6 p.m. today for the entire state.
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning in effect until 6 p.m. today for the entire state.
According to the NWS, strong northeasterly winds will blanket the state through this evening, then gradually subside. Strong gusts, from the wind accelerating down slopes, over ridges and through mountain passes, also are expected.
The weather service expects northeast winds of between 30-45 miles per hour with localized gusts of up to 60 mph.
On the Big Island, the NWS says the strongest winds will be focused in the leeward Kohala area, the Waimea to Kawaihae corridor, western saddle areas and north of Kailua-Kona in the North Kona District.
Peak winds were expected overnight Saturday and this morning.
The weather agency said strong winds can result in damage to roofs, broken and falling tree branches, downed trees, downed power poles and lines and flying debris if outdoor items are not properly tied down.
These types of winds also could make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
The NWS issues a high wind warning when winds are expected to be at least 40 mph with gusts at 60 mph or more.
In addition to the high wind warning, the NWS also issued a high surf advisory for the west and east shores of the Big Island. That advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday.
The weather service was expecting surf to peak along east-facing shores Saturday night and today. Surf in those areas is expected to be between 8-12 feet. On northern shores, the NWS was expecting surf of between 12-16 feet, which should continue through this afternoon and tonight. While the agency is expecting peak surf to continue today, advisory levels also are expected to continue through Tuesday.
The weather agency says beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and be careful.
The high surf advisory means moderate to strong breaking waves and strong longshore and rip currents will likely make swimming difficult and dangerous.