A forecast for high winds and surf on Oahu on Saturday and Sunday has prompted the city’s Department of Emergency Management to issue guidelines for residents.

Northeast winds are forecast in the 35 to 45 mph range with localized gusts as high as 65 mph, according to emergency officials.  “Leeward sloping areas could experience the greatest sustained wind speeds.”  

A high surf advisory was issued Friday afternoon and remains in effect until Monday at 6 a.m. East-facing shores are expected to see 5 to 8 feet on Friday night and Saturday morning rising to 8 to 12 feet Saturday afternoon through early Monday morning.

North-facing shores are expected to peak around 14 to 18 feet this weekend then decline below advisory levels by Sunday night.

A high wind watch means loose objects outdoors should be secured, and outdoor activity should be avoided.

To prepare for high winds, the Department of Emergency Management issued the following guidelines:

>> Trim dead wood and weak/overhanging branches from all trees.

>> Secure lawn furniture, trash cans, holiday decorations especially inflatables and other outside objects that could become projectiles in high winds.

>> Prepare an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, battery operated radio and spare batteries in case of power outage.

>> Drivers of large trucks and SUV’s should be prepared for sudden gusts of wind which could cause momentary loss of vehicle control.

>> Listen carefully for safety instructions from the Department of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service.

>> Call 9-1-1 in high-wind emergencies.