High-surf warnings continue today for the North Shore, with waves up to 35 feet.
"Surf conditions could be dangerous and damaging," said National Weather Service forecaster Vladimir Ryshko. "It will be a lot higher than usual."
On Oahu, winter waves are expected today to reach heights from 25 to 35 feet on the North Shore, 15 to 25 feet on western shores, 1 to 3 feet on eastern shores and up to 2 feet on southern shores, the weather service said. It’s of the biggest swells of the season so far.
Waves varied in height Thursday — as high as 12 feet at Ehukai — as Ocean Safety Division lifeguards rescued seven people, one at Laniakea Beach and six on west-side beaches.
They also issued 905 warnings on the North Shore and 578 warnings on the west side, the division said.
Ocean Safety spokeswoman Shayne Enright, talking about surf conditions today, advised spectators to remain a safe distance away from any shoreline.
"You should definitely ask a lifeguard if you are unfamiliar with the area and potential hazards," she said. "We could see extremely dangerous surf today."
Enright said lifeguards will also be advising beachgoers all day long about the dangers.
"Please listen to them," she said.
Enright said with high surf, lifeguards have had a number of incidents at Shark’s Cove on the North Shore, with people getting close to the edge and being swept into the water.
Hawaii Red Cross volunteers were available Thursday evening in the event residents at Rocky Point in the Sunset Beach area needed help, including extra tools and supplies.
In some areas, residential properties have eroded, forming a sand cliff.
The peak of the swell early this morning coincides with a full moon and large high tide, increasing concerns for beachfront homes.
City officials are also monitoring the potential for waves to wash over highways.
Weather service officials are warning beachgoers that the surf will generate shorebreaks, dangerous waves and strong currents that may make swimming "very hazardous."
Surf should gradually diminish starting tonight, but another swell is expected to bring warning-level surf Sunday.
