A wind advisory has been issued for Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui’s central valley, and over and downwind of the Kohala mountains on Hawaii island, in effect through 6 p.m. today.

Weather officials said northeast winds of 20 to 40 miles per hour, with localized gusts over 50 miles per hour, are expected for the areas. The strong winds can knock down tree branches, cause unsecured objects to blow around, and cause sporadic power outages.

Motorists, especially those in high profile vehicles, are urged to drive with caution.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service, meanwhile, say a surface high far north of the islands will maintain trades into the upcoming weekend.

The trades should be windy and gusty today, then slowly diminish to light and moderate strength over the weekend. Showers riding in with the trades will favor windward and mauka areas.

However, forecasters warn, an unsettled tradewind pattern may take shape over the upcoming weekend.

A small craft advisory for the Hawaiian isles is in effect through 6 p.m. this evening.

A special weather statement continues to highlight the potential for volcanic emissions and ashfall from Halemaumau Crater on Hawaii island. It also highlight’s the potential for Pele’s hair and other volcanic emissions that are being transported downwind from high, fountaining fissures in the southeast Puna District.