Strong trade winds, lower humidity put islands under fire weather watch | News, Sports, Jobs

The Maui News

A fire weather watch will be in effect from 12 p.m. Wednesday through 6 p.m. Thursday, as dry brush combined with strong trade winds and lower humidity create critical fire weather conditions, the National Weather Service warned Monday.

Trade winds of 15 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 45 mph are in the forecast, while humidity could drop as low as 45 to 50 percent Wednesday and 35 to 45 percent on Thursday, according to the weather service.

The fire weather watch is in effect for leeward portions of all Hawaiian islands.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly, and outdoor burning is not recommended.

The weather service also said Monday that the islands could see some minor coastal flooding during high tide times through Thursday at low-lying coastal roadways, docks, boat ramps, marina parking lots and other coastal infrastructure.

Beaches that are normally dry may flood, and there may also be minor coastal erosion and saltwater inundation.

Drivers should avoid flooded roadways; if they are forced to drive through salt water, they should rinse their vehicles with fresh water. The weather service also advised moving electronics, vehicles or other valuables to higher ground; monitoring vessels to ensure mooring lines don’t get too tight; watching out for overwash around boat ramps; and securing canoes or other watercraft stowed on beaches.

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