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STAR-ADVERTISER FILE
Pedestrians in Waikiki held onto their hats during gusty wind conditions along Kalakaua Ave.
Strong gusts accompanying a weak front moving through the island chain prompted weather officials to issue a high wind warning for the islands that will be in effect from 4 p.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Northeasterly winds as strong as 30 to 45 mph are expected to peak in the late afternoon or early evening through Sunday afternoon, according the the National Weather Service.
In Kauai, the strongest winds will be focused in from the Barking Sands area to Koloa.
In Oahu, the winds will impact the leeward sides of the Koolau and Waianae mountain ranges and eastern locations from Waimanalo to Mokapu.
Most of Kahoolawe and Lanai including the central valley of Maui to Wailuku to Maalaea Harbor will also be impacted most in Maui County.
The strong winds will be focused in the leeward Kohala area from Waimea to Kawaihae and north of Kailua Kona on the Big Island.
Strong winds can result in damaged roofs, broken and falling tree branches, downed power lines and downed poles.
The city Department of Emergency Management advises residents to:
>> Trim dead wood and weak/overhanging branches from trees.
>> Secure lawn furniture; trash cans; holiday decorations, especially inflatables; and other outside objects.
>> Prepare an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, battery-operated radio and spare batteries in case of power outage.
>> Drivers of large trucks and SUVs should be prepared for sudden gusts of wind that might could cause momentary loss of vehicle control.
In Hawaiian coastal waters, a gale warning is in effect until 6 a.m. Monday, with winds exceeding 40 mph.
