The Big Island remains under numerous weather warnings and advisories
A high wind warning is in effect for North and South Kohala until 6 a.m. Thursday, and a high surf warning is in effect for east-facing shores of all Hawaiian Islands until 6 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, robust high pressure far north of the state will continue to produce strong and gusty trade winds.
ADVERTISING
Isolated pockets of warning-level wind gusts are expected in the Kohala districts of the Big Island.
A wind advisory is in effect for much of the rest of the Big Island.
A high surf warning has been posed for all east facing shores, including those on Hawaii Island.
According to the NWS, very strong to near-gale force trade winds will continue to produce large and rough surf along east facing shores.
Surf of 10 to 15 feet is expected to cause very strong breaking waves and powerful rip currents.
People are advised to stay away from the shoreline along the affected coasts. Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution.
A gale warning has been posted for Big Island leeward and southeast waters until 6 p.m. Thursday.
A gale warning means winds of 34 to 47 knots per hour are imminent or occurring. Strong winds will cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels.
In addition, a winter weather advisory remains in effect for the summits and upper slopes of Maunakea and Mauna Loa until 6 p.m. Thursday.
The forecast for the summits include periods of snow and freezing rain. Additional snow accumulation of up to four inches is possible, according to NWS.
The Maunakea Access Road remains closed to the public beyond the Visitor Information Station at the 9,200-foot level due to ice and snow on the road.
