High surf advisory extended for Big Island shores

Surfers and body boarders could be seen at breaks along Alii Drive Monday as a large south-southwest swell brought high surf to West Hawaii.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has extended a high surf advisory for most Big Island shores through 4 p.m. Wednesday.

Forecasters are calling for 5- to 8-foot waves for south-facing shores of the island’s Kona, southern, northern and eastern shores.

The service categorized the surf’s impact as “moderate,” noting that people should expect strong breaking waves, shore break and strong longshore and rip currents that can make swimming not only difficult but also dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution if entering the water.

Boaters are also reminded that surfers and bodyboarders may use harbor channels to access surfing areas.