Update: Wind advisory extended through today with gusty conditions forecast to continue

Update at 3:52 a.m. March 12: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu have extended the wind advisory in effect for North and South Kohala, parts of northern Hāmākua, Ka‘ū and some southeastern portions of the Big Island until 6 p.m. March 12, as northeast winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph, are expected to continue through today.

Members of the public in the advisory areas are reminded and advised to:

• Watch out for falling tree branches when walking or driving.
• Make sure tents and awnings are secure or take them down.
• Be prepared for power outages.
• Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle.
• Secure trash cans, lawn furniture and other loose outdoor objects that can be easily blown around by strong winds.

Original post at 5 a.m. March 11: A wind advisory is in effect starting at 6 a.m. today till 6 a.m. Wednesday for North and South Kohala, parts of northern Hāmākua, Ka‘ū and some southeastern portions of the Big Island.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, northeast winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected. Winds will be strongest over and downwind of the mountains and where winds are funneled around and between the terrain.

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.

The public is advised to watch out for falling tree branches when walking or driving. Make sure tents and awnings are secure or take them down. Be prepared for power outages.

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Secure trash cans, lawn furniture, and other loose outdoor objects that can be easily blown around by strong winds.