12/1/10 4:10p Wind Advisory thru 6p Friday

Posted by Wendy Osher

A wind advisory was issued this afternoon for Maui, Lanai, Kahoolawe and the Summit of Haleakala.  It is in effect from 6 a.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday.

The advisory from the National Weather Service means that winds of 30 mph are expected.

The increased winds are the result of a strong high pressure system far to the north of the state.   Strong and gusty trades are expected across the island chain on both Thursday and Friday, with winds easing off on Saturday.

Winds will be in the 25 to 35 mph range, with gusts to 50 mph at the summit of Haleakala on Maui, as well as on Lanai and Kahoolawe.  Areas of Maui will also see winds in the same range for areas where trade winds tend to be accelerated by terrain.  This includes the  southeast coast and central areas of Maui.

As a precaution, drivers should take extra precautions, especially high profile vehicles.  Divers should secure any loose object that may become airborne, or take extra action to move them indoors.