80
JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO@STARADVERTISER.COM
A surfer wipes out on a wave at Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore. One of the first sizable north swells hit the island Monday with waves approaching 12-16 feet in height.
The National Weather Service issued a high surf warning Tuesday for north- and east-facing shores for most islands through 6 a.m. Thursday.
Forecasters predict that surf will rise to 25 to 35 feet along northern shores, and 15 to 20 feet along eastern shores. The north swell will building rapidly tonight, peak Wednesday, and diminish Thursday, they said. Also, surf is predicted to be 15 to 25 feet along exposed north-facing shores on Hawaii island’s Kona coast, mainly from Kiholo Bay to Keahole Point.
The weather service warns that ocean water will surge and sweep across beaches, coastal benches, and lava flows. There is also the potential for impacts to coastal properties and infrastructure, including roadways, especially Kamehameha Highway along Windward Oahu, and along bay front highway in Hilo, officials said.
The public is advised to be wary of powerful longshore and rip currents, large breaking waves and strong currents, and hazardous boating conditions.
