Hilo, Hawaii — A High Wind Warning remains in effect for the Big Island summits through 6 a.m. HST Wednesday, with dangerous winds expected to continue impacting travel and outdoor safety at higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, westerly winds of 50 to 60 mph are ongoing across summit areas, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph. These conditions are focused over the Big Island Summits, including areas near Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, and may affect travel along exposed roadways such as Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway / Route 200) and the Mauna Kea Access Road.
The strong winds pose a serious hazard for high-profile and lightweight vehicles, with powerful crosswinds capable of pushing vehicles out of their lanes. The National Weather Service warns that winds of this strength can also make walking hazardous, forcefully open or slam doors, and potentially cause property damage or injuries.
Drivers traveling overnight or early Wednesday morning are urged to use extreme caution or avoid summit routes altogether until winds subside. Conditions are especially dangerous on elevated and exposed stretches where wind gusts can be sudden and severe.
Residents and visitors are advised to secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor items, including equipment, temporary structures, and vehicles parked in exposed locations. Recreational activities near summit areas should be postponed until conditions improve.
Winds are expected to gradually weaken after daybreak Wednesday as the warning expires, though breezy conditions may linger at higher elevations.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that High Wind Warnings indicate a life-safety threat, not just inconvenience, and urges the public to take all precautions seriously.
For the latest updates and safety information, monitor weather.gov/hfo and heed guidance from local officials.
