DThe winds have been causing havoc on the island. Traffic over Saddle Road was buffeted not only by the high winds but also by huge clouds of dust and debris swirling around. One motorists reported he could feel the grit between his teeth, even in his completely sealed car. High profile vehicles such as SUVs and trucks found the going especially challenging.
In Waimea, a tree fell on a car on Opelu Road. Wind is also suspected as the reason a power pole at Lindsey Road and Highway 190 snapped off Sunday afternoon, putting 6,000 customers out of power for a time and closing that intersection for hours
And in Pahala there was a brushfire earlier today. As of 4:30 p.m., Highway 11 is still closed around Mile Marker 50-51 and traffic is being turned around in both directions.
Bob Bonar
