By Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory until 6 p.m. Monday (Dec 17) for North and East Kohala, Ka‘u, Hilo, Volcano, Honokaa, Waimea, Waikoloa and the Saddle Road area above 5,000 feet

East winds are forecast to be 20-35 mph with localized gusts over 50 mph through Monday afternoon.

The weather service has issued a wind advisory for the summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea above 8,000 feet from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday (Dec 17). Winds for the summits are forecast to come from the East at 15-30 mph with gusts over 50 mph.

A strong high pressure system building North of Hawaii will strengthen trade winds through Monday. The strong winds from this system can bring down tree branches and make driving difficult especially for high profile vehicles. Motorists should use caution while driving.

The strong winds can send trees, branches and other objects into power lines and/or equipment. Hawaii Electric Light Company (HELCO) reminds people that if you see a downed power line you should stay as far away as possible and report any damage or outages to their dispatch center at (808) 969-6666.

A high surf advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday (Dec 18) for East facing shores of the Big Island.

Surf is forecast to be in the six to nine foot range. The large breaking waves will create very rough surf, hazardous conditions and dangerous rip currents.

A small craft advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday (Dec 18) for all Hawaiian waters.