Risk of dangerous surf closes beaches on Oahu and Maui

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources closed sections today of Kaena Point State Park, and Maui County closed Papalaua Wayside Park in anticipation of what the National Weather Service said was life-threatening surf on north- and west-facing shores of most islands.

As of 3:05 p.m. today the biggest surf of the day measured 15-25 feet at Kee and Haena on Kauai. The NWS said the biggest waves on Oahu were 10-15 feet at Ehukai, and on Maui, 12-15 feet at Hookipa.

The Honolulu Emergency Services Department’s Ocean Safety Division performed eight rescues on Oahu’s west shores and none on the island’s North Shore, but took a combined 3,190 preventive actions Sunday, department spokesman Shayne Enright said. She said North Shore lifeguards stayed on after regular hours to help ensure public safety.

A high surf warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Monday. The NWS is forecasting surf peaking at 35-50 feet overnight along the north and west shores of Niihau and Kauai and along the north shores of Oahu, Molokai, Maui and the Big Island. The surf was expected to peak at 25-35 feet along the west shores of Oahu and Molokai and then lower to 15-25 feet Monday.

The Weather Service warned residents to expect ocean water surging and sweeping over beaches and roadways, creating the potential for significant beach erosion and damage to coastal properties. It also warned of damage to boats and infrastructure at state harbors due to ocean currents and surges.