Red flag warning canceled for leeward areas of all islands
UPDATE: Thursday, 3:35 p.m.
The National Weather Service has canceled the red flag warning for leeward areas of all Hawaiian islands.
“As winds begin to decrease and relative humidity rebounds, the threat of critical fire weather has diminished,” forecasters said.
Wednesday 1:45 p.m.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the leeward areas of all Hawaiian isles, effective until 6 p.m. Thursday.
Weather officials say the combination of dry fuels, low relative humidity and strong tradewinds will bring critical fire weather conditions to the leeward areas this afternoon as well as Thursday afternoon.
Don't miss out on what's happening!
Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It's FREE!
Forecasters expect east winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph, and relative humidity as low as 45 percent.
According to the weather service, “a red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.” The warning does not predict new fire starts, officials said.
“Outdoor burning is not recommended,” the warning said. “Heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass. Park cars on areas that are paved or where vegetation is trimmed and cleared.
“High winds contribute to wildfire hazard. Delay activities that could throw off sparks until the wind dies down.”
PREVIOUS COVERAGE
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory covering most of Maui County and Hawaii island, effective until 6 a.m. Thursday.
East winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph, are expected to whip around portions of Kahoolawe, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii island.
“Winds this strong can tear off shingles, knock down tree branches, blow away tents and awnings and make it difficult to steer, especially for drivers of high profile vehicles,” said the advisory.
Those under advisory should watch out for falling tree branches when walking or driving, make sure tents and awnings are secure, and be prepared for power outages.
Forecasters expect tradewinds to continue strengthening today, peaking tonight.
A high wind warning is also in effect for Big Isle summits through 6 p.m. today.
East winds of 50 to 60 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph, which will make travel to the summits hazardous due to powerful cross winds, officials said, especially for lightweight and high profile vehicles.
The high winds are likely to remain elevated into Thursday morning.
