Twenty- to 25-foot waves are forecast for the Big Island’s west-facing shores starting Thursday evening, according to the National Weather Service. A high surf warning goes into effect at 6 p.m.
Twenty- to 25-foot waves are forecast for the Big Island’s west-facing shores starting Thursday evening, according to the National Weather Service. A high surf warning goes into effect at 6 p.m.
A strong low-pressure system in the northwest Pacific has generated a large west-northwest swell that will affect select west-facing shores along the Kona and Kohala coasts, according to forecasters. Surf is expected to begin building Thursday afternoon reaching warning levels shortly after sunset. While forecasters expect the waves to gradually diminish by 6 p.m. Saturday, surf may remain hazardous through Sunday.
The service categorized the surf’s impact as “ high” warning that waves may sweep across portions of beaches. The service also warned of very strong breaking waves and strong longshore and rip currents. The breaking waves may impact harbors making navigating the harbor channel dangerous.
Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise extreme caution, according to the service.