Warning-level surf forecast for Kona, Kohala coasts

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Eight- to 12-foot surf is expected along west-facing shores of the Big Island’s Kona and Kohala coasts through Saturday morning. A high surf warning goes into effect a noon Friday.

Eight- to 12-foot surf is expected along west-facing shores of the Big Island’s Kona and Kohala coasts through Saturday morning. A high surf warning goes into effect a noon Friday.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu says the “life-threatening” surf is associated with a large west-northwest swell that is expected to peak today and then slowly drop through the weekend. Forecasters noted that surf will likely drop to advisory levels on Saturday before fizzling out Sunday.

Forecasters also cautioned the public to expect ocean water to occasionally sweep over portions of beaches, very strong breaking waves and strong longshore and rip currents. The waves may also make navigating harbor channels dangerous.