High wind and surf expected on Hawai‘i Island through today; Hilo beach closed

3:42 p.m. Jan. 16 update: A high surf advisory for north-facing shores of Hawai‘i Island is now in effect till 6 a.m. Wednesday.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, the surf, 12 to 20 feet, will decline long below the advisory level by Wednesday morning.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Hawai‘i Island through tonight.

Southwest winds are expected to increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts of over 50 mph.

Winds this strong can blow away canopies and tents, damage trees, and make driving difficult.

The National Weather Service has also issued a high surf advisory for all north-facing shores of Hawai‘i Island, from Upolu Point in North Kohala to Cape Kumukahi in Puna through Thursday.

Onekahakaha Beach Park in Hilo will remain closed today.

Expect strong breaking waves, shore breaks and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials; and when in doubt, don’t go out.