Update: Big Island wind advisory canceled

3:10 p.m. Feb. 25 update: Winds have remained below advisory levels for portions of the Big
Island. Thus, the wind advisory has been canceled.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for portions of Kaho‘olawe, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and the Big Island.

The advisory is in effect from noon today through 6 p.m. Sunday.

Trade winds will increase later today as wind direction changes slightly from east-southeasterlies to easterlies. Areas most affected will be higher terrain adjacent to traditionally windy channels across the eastern half of the main island chain.

East winds 20 to 30 mph with localized gusts over 45 mph are expected. 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.