Hawaii under high wind advisory with gusts up to 55 mph expected

The state is under a wind advisory today as strong and gusty trade winds whip the islands, forecasters said this morning.

East winds up to 35 mph, with gusts as high as 55 mph, are expected to begin late this morning thanks to a high pressure system building north of the state, according to the National Weather Service.

The wind advisory is in effect for 24 hours starting at 6 a.m. today.

“Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. Be prepared for falling tree branches and local power outages,” the advisory says.