Small craft advisory remains in effect

A small craft advisory remains in effect for Hawaii Island’s leeward and southeast waters through 6 p.m. today, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

Forecasters said the advisory was prompted by a high pressure system passing far north of the islands that is causing trade winds to strengthen. The service forecast northeast winds reaching 20 knots to 25 knots, or about 23 mph to 29 mph. Rough seas of 7 feet to 12 feet are also expected.

A small craft advisory means that wind speeds of 25 to 33 knots, or 29 to 38 mph, and/or seas are expected to be 10 feet or greater and expected to produce conditions hazardous to small craft, according to the service. Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in such conditions.