Maui Wind Advisory Continued to 6p 3/24/11

File image by Wendy Osher.

Maui County remains under a Wind Advisory until 6 o’clock tonight.  The National Weather Service continued the advisory with forecasts of 30 mph winds, with 50 mph gusts.

The strong and gusty trade winds are the result of a high pressure system north of the Islands.

East winds will be in the 20 to 30 mph range, with frequent gusts up to 50 mph. Forecasters say the strong and gusty winds will be widespread, but the winds will be especially strong through valleys, over ridges and mountain tops, and where they accelerate downslope over the leeward sides of the islands.

Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.  Motorists are advised to use extra caution and secure any objects that may become airborne.  The public should also be alert for falling tree branches and potential power outages.

***Posted by Wendy Osher, supporting information courtesy National Weather Service and Maui County Civil Defense.