HAWAII ISLAND – The roads to the summits of Hawaii Island’s towering mountains are closed as a High Wind Warning is in effect.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu reports west winds of 45 to 65 mph are expected to blow through 6 p.m. this evening. Gusts could reach up to 75 mph.

“Strong winds will make driving and hiking very dangerous,” forecasters reported at 3 a.m. HST. “These winds can blow down tents and slam doors open or closed forcefully enough to cause damage or injuries.”

The road to the summit of Mauna Kea is closed at the Visitor Information Station, Maunakea Rangers report.

The summit of Mauna Loa is also closed due to high wind conditions, says Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

“Travel to the summit areas should be delayed until winds subside,” the National Weather Service says. “If you must travel to the summits, drive cautiously and be careful opening and closing doors.”