Strong thunderstorms are likely for Kailua-Kona and surrounding areas this afternoon while strong and gusty tradewinds continue to buffet the rest of the islands.

The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement this morning covering the leeward and interior areas of Hawaii island. “The primary threats with these thunderstorms will be dangerous cloud to surface lightning strikes, locally gusty winds, small hail, and very low visibility in areas of heavy rain,” the statement said.

Weather officials also said the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa could see brief heavy snow showers.

The rest of the state should expect continued strong tradewinds, diminishing Friday through the weekend. Honolulu is expected to be mostly sunny today with windward and mauka showers.