A gale warning is in effect primarily for channels off the Big Island and Maui.

The National Weather Service warns boaters of strong trade winds and rough ocean conditions in waters across the Hawaiian Islands, mainly at the Pailolo Channel, Alenuihaha Channel and Maalaea Bay.

The warning is in effect until 6 p.m. today.

Southeasterly tradewinds of up to 35 knots or 40 miles per hour and seas of 10 to 12 feet and up to 15 feet in channels are expected, said forecaster Derek Wroe. At Maalaea Bay, seas of up to five feet are expected.

A small craft advisory is also in effect for Hawaii waters across the island chain until 6 p.m. Tuesday. The weather service advised inexperienced mariners to avoid hazardous sea conditions.