Update: Winter warning canceled for Big Island summits, wind advisory extended

3:21 p.m. May 11 update: The winter warning is canceled for Big Island summits. However, the wind advisory is extended till 6 a.m. Sunday.

Southwest winds of 40 to 50 mph with localized gusts to 60 mph are expected.

Original post: A wind and winter storm warning are in effect for Big Island summits starting Friday.

According to the National Weather Service, the winter warning will go into effect at noon and is expected to last till 6 a.m. Saturday. Heavy snow and very strong winds expected. Total snow accumulations of up to 6 inches are also expected.

The wind warning goes into effect on Friday at 6 a.m. bringing with it southwest winds of 40 to 60 mph with localized gusts over 70 mph expected. Winds are expected to die down by 6 a.m. Saturday.

Travel could be difficult to impossible. Blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility at times,
with periods of zero visibility.

The winds will also make driving and walking dangerous. The winds can forcefully open doors and damage hinges or slam doors shut, possibly causing injuries.