Blustery winds and high surf continue to buffet the islands as an area of high pressure passes north of Kauai through Friday.

The National Weather Service said that easterly tradewinds will peak today from 20 to 40 mph with localized gusts over 50 mph. The strongest winds will occur over and downwind from higher elevations.

“Winds this strong can down tree branches and cause periodic power outages,” weather officials said in an advisory. “Driving will also be difficult.”

Meanwhile, a high surf advisory is in effect for the east shores of most islands.

The advisory covers Oahu, Maui, Hawaii island, Kauai and Molokai and is in effect through 6 p.m. Friday.

Surf along affect shores is expected to reach 8 to 11 feet, forecasters said.

“Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous,” an advisory said.