(BIVN) – The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Wind Advisory for the lower elevations of the Big Island, in effect from noon today to midnight tonight, as a High Wind Warning is in effect for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Forecasters say:

Strong north winds aloft will build in over the Big Island as an upper level trough departs to the east and an upper ridge moves in from the west. Also, breezy north winds along a surface front crossing the islands will bring advisory conditions at the low elevations of the Big Island due to acceleration around the terrain.

Below the summits, north winds will pick up to 15 to 30 mph with localized gusts over 45 mph.

At higher elevations, north winds will blow at 35 to 65 mph with localized gusts over 70 mph.

Motorists, especially those in high profile vehicles, are urged to drive with extreme caution. Travel to the summits is not advised. The Maunakea Access road is now closed to the public at the Visitor Information Station at an elevation of 9,200 feet.