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Red flag warning canceled; wind advisory in effect for some islands

UPDATE: SATURDAY 4:05 p.m.

The red flag warning for leeward areas of all islands has been canceled.

However, a wind advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. Sunday for portions of Kahoolawe, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and the Big Island, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters expect east winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.

“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,” they said.

After the red flag warning was canceled, Hawaiian Electric Co. officials said they have deactivated the company’s Public Safety Power Shutoff watch.

“The company has been monitoring weather conditions, and although a wind advisory remains in effect for part of the state, humidity levels have been increasing throughout the day,” HECO officials said. “Hawaiian Electric did not need to shut off power to customers under its PSPS program. Any power outages today were unrelated to the PSPS program.”

FRIDAY 4:20 p.m.

The National Weather Service has extended the red flag warning for leeward areas of all islands through Saturday afternoon.

“The combination of dry fuels, low relative humidity, and strong trade winds will bring critical fire weather conditions for leeward sections of the state through early this evening, and again from Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon,” the updated warning said.

The warning is in effect until 4 p.m. Saturday.

The weather service said:

>> Outdoor burning is not recommended.

>> Heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass. Park cars on areas that are paved or where vegetation is trimmed and cleared.

>> Delay activities that could throw off sparks until the wind dies down.

RELATED STORY: Maili Pillbox trail evacuated due to brush fire

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PREVIOUS COVERAGE

The National Weather Service has issued multiple advisories across Hawaii as windy conditions and hazardous surf create challenges for residents and visitors.

A high surf advisory is in place through 6 a.m. Sunday for the east shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and Hawaii island, where surf is expected to reach 8 to 12 feet Weather officials advise beachgoers to avoid entering the water in affected areas.

A red flag warning was in effect for all leeward areas through 6 p.m. today. Critical fire weather conditions — with low humidity, strong winds and dry fuels will increase the risk of wildfires. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” the NWS said in a bulletin.

A wind advisory is in effect for portions of the Hawaiian islands, including Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Hawaii island, through 6 a.m. Sunday. The National Weather Service forecasts sustained northeast winds of 20-30 mph, with localized gusts reaching up to 50 mph. “Winds will be strongest over ridges, through passes and near higher terrain,” the NWS said.

Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor objects and drive cautiously, especially in high-profile vehicles, as gusty winds may lead to hazardous driving conditions. Power outages are also a possibility.

A coastal flood statement is also in effect through Monday morning, alerting residents to possible flooding of normally dry beaches, minor coastal erosion and saltwater inundation.

A gale warning remains in effect for coastal waters statewide until 6 a.m. Sunday, with east winds of 25 to 35 knots — except for north winds in Maalaea Bay — and seas of 9 to 14 feet. These conditions will create dangerous seas for mariners. Additionally, a small craft advisory remains active.

The islands will get brisk tradewinds through the weekend, with slightly drier air contributing to elevated wildfire risks in leeward areas. Another band of moisture is forecast to arrive over the weekend, however, increasing shower activity across the state.

Although trades are expected to weaken slightly next week, conditions should remain breezy with localized showers.

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