Wind advisory issued for Big Island

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a wind advisory for the Big Island through 6 a.m. Saturday.

The service forecast 20 to 35 mph easterly winds with gusts topping 50 mph for the entire island. The forecast also noted advisory-level winds will impact Saddle Road above the 5,000-foot elevation.

A wind advisory means that sustained winds of at least 30 mph or gusts of at least 50 mph are expected. Winds this strong can bring down tree branches; cause local power outages; and make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.