Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Thursday, March 6, 2025 80° Today's Paper


Breaking News

High surf warning for north, west shores of most islands

A high surf warning has been issued for the north- and west-facing shores of most Hawaiian isles.

The National Weather Service says an extra-large, west-northwest to northwest swell is expected to fill in today, and then peak this afternoon.

The high surf warning goes into effect through 6 a.m. Saturday.

It covers the north- and west-facing shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and Molokai, and the west-facing shores of Maui.

>> On north-facing shores, surf is expected to build to 25 to 35 feet by this afternoon.

>> On west-facing shores, surf is expected to build to 15 to 25 feet by this afternoon.

The warning does not cover Hawaii island, where the swell is expected to peak to night into Saturday.

Ocean water can surge and sweep across beaches, forecasters warned, affecting coastal properties and roadways.

“Powerful longshore and rip currents will be present at most beaches,” said NWS in the warning. “Large breaking waves and strong currents may impact harbor entrances and channels causing challenging boat handling.”

The public should stay away from the shoreline along affected coasts, and postpone entering or leaving channels until the surf subsides.

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