UPDATE # 2: Big Island weather-related news for March 9

Update #2 at 11 a.m. on March 9: Due to hazardous surf conditions at Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, the picnic area and portions of the trail going into the Puʻuhonua will remain closed throughout.

Update #1 at 9:30 a.m. on March 9: The National Weather Service has canceled the wind advisory for all districts of the Big Island, although the high wind warning remains in effect for the summits.

Road and repair crews continue to conduct debris removal and power restoration to areas damaged by the recent high winds. All major arterial roads have been reopened.

If you sustained wind related damage to your property, a self-reporting portal is available on the Hawaii County Civil Defense webpage or you may call Civil Defense at 808-935-0031 to report damage.

Original post: The National Weather Service said a high surf warning for west-facing shores of the Big Island will continue through tonight.

The forecast is for dangerously large breaking waves of 12 to 16 feet.

A large long period northwest swell will peak early this morning, bringing large surf for leeward Big Island. The combination of large wind waves due to strong westerly winds and long-period swell energy will result in very rough and hazardous conditions through tonight. The swell will decline and become north northwesterly Friday through the weekend.

Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers exercise caution and heed all advice given by ocean safety officials. Beaches also may close without notice.

On Tuesday, a brown water advisory was issued for Waialea Bay to Kapaʻa Beach Park.

Waves breaking in channel entrances may make navigating the channels dangerous. Stay away from the shoreline along the affected coasts. Be prepared for road closures. Postpone entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf until the surf subsides.

A high wind advisory continues to be in place for all districts of Hawaiʻi today, with sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph and localized gusts over 50 mph.

A high wind warning also remains in place through Sunday for the summits of the Big Island. Sustained winds of 70 to 90 mph with higher gusts are forecast for areas above 8,000 feet.

Motorists should avoid summit roads until conditions improve.