High surf warning remains in effect for most islands

A high surf warning for north- and west-facing shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and Molokai as well as for the north-facing shores of Maui remains in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday.

The National Weather Service says a very large, north-northwest swell will create dangerous surf along north- and west-facing shores. Waves are expected to peak at 30 to 40 feet today and remain very high through Thursday.

A high surf advisory is in effect for north-facing shores of Hawaii island, with waves building to 24 feet today, until 6 p.m. Thursday.

The World Surf League’s Billabong Pipe Masters is off for today, with the next call scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Thursday.

The Kauai Fire Department’s Ocean Safety officials, meanwhile, are advising the public not to swim or snorkel at Kee and Haena beaches due to high surf, strong rip currents and dangerous conditions on the Garden Isle’s north shore.

Beachgoers are advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could sweep the shoreline and ocean water surging over the shoreline could also affect coastal roads. The public is urged to heed all posted warnings and advisories.

A high wind watch for Hawaii island summits is scheduled to go into effect from this evening through Thursday afternoon. Driving and hiking at the summits may be dangerous with localized gusts up to 70 miles per hour.