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A large wave injured an elderly couple swimming in a tidal pool in Puna Sunday afternoon, Hawaii County firefighters said.
The couple, a 74-year-old man and 63-year-old woman, were able to get out of the water at Orr’s Beach on their own at about 3;30 p.m., firefighters said. Firefighters placed secured them in full-spinal precautions before airlifting them by helicopter to Papio Park, where paramedics took them to the Hilo Medical Center. There was no word on their conditions.
East shores, including beaches in Puna, was under a high surf advisory , which continues today. Rough and choppy 6- to 8-foot surf is expected again through this afternoon.
National Weather Service forecasters say large breaking waves are coming ashore on east shores, producing dangerous rip currents.
