The state Department of Transportation says the H-3 freeway will be closed in the Honolulu-bound direction between the Likelike Highway underpass and the Halawa Interchange for overnight emergency repair work beginning 7 p.m. today through 4 a.m. Thursday.

The right lane of the freeway is now closed on the Halawa side about two miles from the Harano Tunnel. The lane will remain closed until the repairs are finished.

A steel expansion joint that helps connect two segments of the roadway is damaged and needs to be repaired, transportation officials said in a news release. The entire roadway must be closed to prevent vibration while the crews are welding.

Drivers can use the Pali and Likelike highways as alternative routes and are urged to drive with caution and allow extra time.