High surf, winds to continue buffeting some isles this week
The high surf advisory for east-facing shores of most Hawaiian isles continues through 6 a.m. Thursday, weather officials said, due to strong trades that produce rough, choppy surf.
Surf is expected to reach 6 to 10 feet high along the east-facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and the Big Island today through Thursday morning.
In addition to strong, breaking waves and shore break, the National Weather Service warns of strong rip currents, making swimming difficult and dangerous. Beachgoers, swimmers, and surfers should exercise caution and heed all advice given by Ocean Safety officials.
A wind advisory for Maui County isles and the Big Island also remains in effect until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Northeast winds of 20 to 40 miles per hour, with localized gusts over 50 miles per hour, are expected through Wednesday morning.
The winds can potentially knock down tree branches, cause car doors to slam and result in sporadic power outages. Motorists should drive with caution, especially those in high-profile vehicles.
Forecasters said a series of high-pressure systems passing north of the islands will keep trades strong through Thursday, then weaken on Friday into the weekend. Wet weather is also expected over the next few days, with drier conditions beginning Saturday. Another cold front, however, is expected to sweep down the island chain by next Tuesday, bringing more rain.
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