Update: High wind warning extended for Big Island summits

Update at 6:50 a.m. March 16: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu have extended the high wind warning in effect for Big Island summits until noon today, as southwest winds of 50 to 60 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph, are expected to continue ripping across the tops of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa for several more hours.

The public is again advised that winds this strong can make driving and walking dangerous. These winds can forcefully open doors and damage hinges or slam doors shut, possibly causing injuries.

A high wind warning means winds at the summits are expected to be at least 56 mph, with gusts at speeds of more than 66 mph.

Take necessary precautions to protect property, and travel to summit areas should be delayed until winds subside.

Update at 8:30 p.m. March 15: The high wind advisory that was in effect for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island has been upgraded to a high wind warning that is in effect until 6 a.m. March 16 as winds are now forecast to reach speeds exceeding 65 mph at times as they scream across the mountaintops.

National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu now expect southwest winds of 50 to 65 mph to jet over the summit areas of both mountains, with gusts of up to 80 mph, that will make travel difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

The public is advised to consider postponing any planned travel to the summits until conditions improve. If you must travel into the advisory areas, use extra caution walking and driving, and be careful opening or closing doors.

Original post at 9:37 a.m. March 15: The National Weather Service in Honolulu issued a wind advisory for the summit areas of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island through 8 a.m. March 16 as breezy southwest winds of 30 to 45 mph, with higher gusts, are expected to howl as winds have already crept upward to advisory speeds.

Winds this strong can make driving and even walking dangerous. They also can forcefully open doors and damage hinges or slam doors shut, possibly causing injuries.

Forecasters advise the public to consider postponing any travel plans to the summits until conditions improve.

If you must travel to either summit area, use extra caution walking and driving, and be careful opening or closing doors.