3:30 p.m. 1/11/11 Wind Advisories Begin as Cold Front Approaches

(Updated 3:30 p.m. 1/11/11)

Maalaea wind turbines at Kaheawa Wind Farm. File photo by Wendy Osher.

Winds on Maui will increase ahead of a cold front that is expected to begin dropping heavy rain over the western portion of the state beginning tomorrow.  The Wind ADVISORY begins Wednesday afternoon for the summits on Maui and the Big Island as well as the counties of Maui, Oahu and Kauai.  It will remain in effect through noon on Thursday.

Southwest winds of 30-40 miles per hour are expected, with gusts of up to 50 mph to begin by midday tomorrow atop Haleakala, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The strongest gusts are expected to be along the usual windward side of each island, where winds blow down-slope from the mountains. 

Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.  Motorists should use extra caution while driving. Winds this strong can also cause localized power outages and minor damage to poorly constructed roofs.  The public can prepare by securing loose outdoor objects which can be blown around by the strong winds.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; information courtesy the National Weather Service)