Update: Wind advisory canceled

Update: The wind advisory previously in effect until early tonight for portions of the Big Island has been canceled. The National Weather Service said at 3:41 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, that trade winds are slowly easing and advisory conditions are no longer expected.

Original story: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory with a new strong area of high-pressure building far north of the state that will keep breezy to locally windy trades in place on Dec. 12.

East winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected with local localized gusts of 45 mph for portions of the Big Island, Maui and Lānaʻi are expected until 6 p.m. Monday.

The strongest winds will occur over and downwind of terrain, and in saddle areas between mountains. Winds are expected to slowly move east Monday night and Tuesday.

Winds this strong can knock down tree branches, blow away tents and unsecured objects, and make it difficult to drive, especially for high profile vehicles.

Watch out for falling tree branches when walking or driving. Make sure tents and awnings are secure or take them down. Be prepared for possible power outages.