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Honolulu Ocean Safety officials on Tuesday issued a warning of a large influx of Portuguese men-of-war at windward side beaches, including Makapuu, Waimanalo and Kailua beaches.
Lifeguards posted warning signs along impacted beaches, and verbally warned beachgoers of the influx. One veteran lifeguard said it was the largest influx he has ever seen, according to Honolulu Emergency Services Department spokeswoman Shayne Enright.
As of 2:15 p.m., Enright reported the following numbers:
>> Makapuu Beach: 30 stings, with an estimated 500 Portuguese man-of-war seen on the beach
>> Waimanalo Beach: 80 stings, with an estimated thousands of Portuguese man-of-war seen on the beach
>> Kailua Beach: 100 stings, with an estimated thousands of Portuguese man-of-war seen on the beach
The man-of-war, which is blue in color, can deliver a painful sting when touched. They drift in island waters and wash up on beaches with their distinctive bubble floats and tentacles.
The public is urged to use caution when visiting Makapuu, Waimanalo and Kailua beaches. Also, the public may seek lifeguards at the beach for first aid care and the most up-to-date information.
In late August of last year, a higher than normal influx of the man-of-war also hit Kailua Beach Park.
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