Honolulu Ocean Safety lifeguards rescued a snorkeler from dangerous ocean conditions at a surfing break called Uppers on Oahu’s North Shore just before 5 p.m. Saturday.

The 30-year old snorkeler suffered serious injuries and was having trouble breathing when a lifeguard ran up a nearby hillside at Waimea Bay and then jumped into the ocean to secure the man, according to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services.

Lifeguards on a personal watercraft were then able to reach the snorkeler, pull him onto their rescue craft and bring him to shore at Waimea.

EMS and the Honolulu Fire Department also responded. EMS took over with advanced life support measures and transported the injured man in serious condition to an emergency room.

Surf at the time was said to be 12 to 15 feet in height. EMS officials strongly urge beachgoers to use extreme caution during high-surf advisories. Another northwest swell is expected to bring more large surf today.