Wind advisory replaces warning for Oahu
UPDATE: 4:30 p.m.
The high wind warning for Oahu has been lifted, but a wind advisory is in effect for the island through Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters said east winds from 20 to 30 mph with gusts over 50 mph are expected through 6 a.m. Saturday for Oahu, Kauai, Niihau, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and parts of the Big Island.
“Winds this strong can tear off shingles, knock down tree branches, blow away tents and awnings and make it difficult to steer, especially for drivers of high profile vehicles,” the advisory says.
A high wind warning for the northern section of Hawaii island remains in place with forecasters predicting winds of 30 to 40 mph and localized gusts over 60 mph. The warning covers the Kohala Mountains and Waimea.
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A strong high-pressure system to the northeast of the state will continue to produce strong tradewinds across the islands into the weekend.
A high wind warning remains in effect through 6 p.m. today for Oahu. Forecasters expect east winds of 30 to 40 mph with localized gusts over 60 mph.
A high wind warning was also extended through 6 a.m. Saturday for the Kohala mountains and the Waimea area on Hawaii island. Affected areas should see east winds of 20 to 40 mph with gusts over 70 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
A wind advisory for most of the state has also been extended through 6 a.m. Saturday for most lower elevation areas on all islands and the summits of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa and Haleakala. East winds of 20 to 30 mph with localized gusts of over 50 mph are expected, weather officials said.
Residents and visitors are advised to beware of falling tree branches when walking or driving and prepare for power outages. Tents and awnings should be secured or taken down.
Meanwhile, a high surf warning remains in effect for the east shores of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii island, Kauai and Molokai through 6 p.m. Saturday.
Surf of 10 to 15 feet is expected for affected shores, according to forecasters.