An approaching northwest swell and strong tradewinds are each expected to bring large surf, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a high surf advisory for most islands.

High surf advisories are in effect for the east-facing shores of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii island, Kauai and Molokai through 6 p.m. Wednesday. The north- and west-facing shores of Oahu, Kauai, Molokai and Oahu are under a high surf advisory through 6 p.m. Monday, as are the north-facing shores of Maui. The west-facing shores of Hawaii island will also be under an advisory from 6 p.m. tonight through 6 a.m. Monday.

Waves of 16 to 22 feet are expected along the north- and west-facing shores of Kauai, Molokai and Niihau and the north-facing shores of Oahu and Maui. West-facing shores of Oahu are expected to see surf build up to 12 to 16 feet, while Oahu’s east-facing shores could see surf of 8 to 10 feet.

The strong tradewinds are expected to make for rough, choppy surf along east-facing shores, forecasters said.

Beachgoers are urged to stay out of the water and away from the shorebreak because of dangerous wave action and strong rip currents.

The high pressure system that is generating the strong tradewinds has also prompted weather officials to issue a wind advisory for Maui, Hawaii island, Lanai and Kahoolawe until 6 p.m. tonight.

Strong easterly winds from 20 to 30 mph are forecast, with gusts up to 50 mph.

Weather officials expect the tradewinds to remain with us through the weekend, with overcast skies and showers forecast for Windward and mauka areas.