High surf and weaker winds due for isles

The National Weather Service is predicting high surf, light winds and possibly hazy conditions this weekend.

A high-surf advisory for south-facing shores of all islands was in effect until 6 a.m. today. The weather service warns of surf between 6 and 8 feet, with large breaking waves leading to rough surf and hazardous rip currents.

Tradewinds are expected to weaken as a high-pressure ridge, pushed by a strengthening cold front, moves toward the islands.

The passing ridge should pass over Kauai and Oahu by Sunday, bringing light and variable winds to the smaller islands, the weather service said. The cold front is expected to linger northwest of Kauai into next week, with light variable winds continuing over smaller islands and light trades over Hawaii island.

Volcanic haze from Hawaii island might spread to other islands over the weekend, possibly lingering into Tuesday, according to forecasters.

NEIGHBOR ISLANDS

Burial survey to delay project and evictions

An archaeological survey to search for possible Native Hawaiian graves is expected to delay plans to build an oceanfront park on a 784-acre parcel at Kawa Bay in Kau on Hawaii island.

West Hawaii Today reported Friday that the survey will put off the evictions for several Native Hawaiians who live in tents and wooden structures on the land and who say they have a right to stay.

County administrators haven’t evicted 70-year-old Abel Sime­ona Lui and a group of people who live with him despite a court order.

Neighbors have complained about Lui and his supporters, saying they have harassed people for hiking the land’s trails and taking children to the shoreline.

Lui claims his great-grandfather was given the land in a royal grant.

Event reminds public of rules for beach parks

Hawaii County community policing officers and Salvation Army representatives held a sign-waving activity Friday along Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo to remind people that drinking in beach parks is illegal.

That followed a community outreach session two weeks ago at Richardson Beach Park in which officials offered information about alternative programs for youth and about the laws regarding drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking at beach parks.

More community awareness events regarding alcohol abuse are planned in coming months as the holidays approach.

Any groups or individuals who wish to participate in future public-awareness projects may call the Community Policing Section at 961-8121.