50-60 mph Gusts Expected on Maui, Lānaʻi

Windmills above Kaheawa on Maui. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

(Update: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014)

A wind advisory has been extended for Maui County until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say north to northeast winds are expected to accelerate over Maui and the Big Island of Hawaiʻi.

The forecast calls for sustained winds of 25 to 40 mph, with 50 mph gusts.

(Posted: Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2014)

Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are expected on Lānaʻi, with gusts approaching 60 mph at the summit of Haleakalā on Maui today, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency issued a wind advisory for Maui County until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014, as north to northeast winds are expected to accelerate around the islands.

“Expect northeast winds of 25 to 35 mph, with localized gusts to 50 mph, over Lānaʻi. Expect sustained winds over Haleakala Summit near 45 mph with gusts approaching 60 mph,” the NWS forecast said.

As a precautionary measure, motorists are advised that driving can be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.  Winds this strong can also bring down tree branches, creating unexpected obstacles.

The National Weather Service reports a low pressure system northeast of the Big Island will continue to bring cool northeast winds to the state through tonight.

That low, forecasters say, is expected to move closer to the islands on Wednesday, bringing increased showers to all islands.