Posted on: Sunday, December 5, 2004

Strong wind, rain normal for winter

Advertiser Staff

Brisk winds and showers made the islands feel a little stormy yesterday, but the National Weather Service said it was fairly normal winter weather.

"The stronger trade winds usually come in the spring," said lead forecaster Bob Farrell, "but winters are known for variable winds."

Trade winds blowing 15-25 mph and gusting to 35 mph made passing showers feel heavier than they actually were, he said.

Parts of the Big Island got the worst of the winds, with gusts reaching 70 mph in places, he said. Maui was also fairly breezy in some areas, he said.

The brisk winds and passing showers should continue through today and ease off tomorrow, becoming lighter by midweek.

A high surf advisory was in effect last night and possibly into today for east-facing shores of most of the islands. A gale warning was issued for the channels.