hawaii is bracing for another round of powerful waves as a important northwest swell continues to batter the islands. High surf warnings and advisories, initially issued over the weekend, have been extended through Tuesday, December 24th, by the National Weather Service in Honolulu. The warnings highlight the potential for dangerously high surf, impacting both coastal communities and recreational activities.
The Big Island is experiencing the brunt of the swell. initially, a high surf warning was in effect for Kona and Kohala shores, with forecasts predicting waves reaching 8 to 12 feet by Sunday afternoon. Reports indicated the potential for waves as high as 50 feet in some areas.However, as of 8:26 a.m.on December 23rd,the warning was downgraded to a high surf advisory for these areas,although the advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. on December 24th. Surf of 6 to 8 feet is still anticipated.
North-facing shores of the Big Island are also under a high surf advisory,extended until 6 p.m. on December 24th. Waves of 12 to 16 feet are currently being observed, with a slight decrease to 10 to 15 feet expected later in the day. The advisory warns of strong breaking waves and powerful currents, making swimming and other ocean activities extremely hazardous.
The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of caution. “The public should, as always, heed all advice from ocean safety officials. When in doubt, don’t go out,” thay urge. This warning extends to all beachgoers, swimmers, and surfers. As of 9:46 a.m. on December 23rd,Kahalu‘u and la‘aloa beaches remained closed due to the hazardous conditions,while all Hilo beach parks were open,but with a strong advice for caution.
The powerful swell is not limited to the Big Island. A high surf advisory is also in effect for other parts of the state, underscoring the widespread impact of this winter storm. The swell is expected to gradually diminish, with wave heights falling below advisory levels by Tuesday night and Wednesday. However, until than, coastal communities should remain vigilant, and beachgoers should prioritize safety.
The potential for significant coastal impacts remains a concern. Forecasters warn of the possibility of ocean water surging across beaches and coastal areas,potentially damaging properties and infrastructure,including roadways. The combination of high surf and high tides during the early morning hours presents the greatest risk. Boaters should also be aware of challenging conditions in harbors and channels due to large breaking waves and strong currents.
This event serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of heeding weather warnings. Staying informed and prioritizing safety are crucial during periods of high surf and severe weather conditions.
Massive Waves Slam Hawaii’s Big Island: High Surf Warnings Issued
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The Big Island of Hawaii is bracing for a powerful onslaught of winter swells, prompting urgent high surf warnings and beach closures across multiple coastal areas.The National Weather Service (NWS) in Honolulu has issued warnings for both west and north-facing shores, urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution.
Initially focused on the western shores, the advisory has been expanded to include the north-facing coasts, where waves are predicted to reach staggering heights. “North-facing shores of the island are expected to see surf of 15 to 20 feet today, building to 18 to 24 feet tonight and Saturday,” according to the NWS.
The NWS warns of dangerously strong breaking waves and powerful currents,making any ocean activity extremely hazardous. “In all high surf situations, remember: when in doubt, don’t go out,” the agency advises.
- Stay away from the shoreline: Avoid all affected coastal areas.
- Prepare for road closures: Coastal roads may be temporarily inaccessible.
- postpone water activities: Avoid entering or exiting channels until the surf subsides.
This dangerous surf event, expected to persist into early next week, is the result of overlapping, powerful north-northwest swells. The largest swell is anticipated to arrive tonight, peaking on Sunday before gradually diminishing by early next week. Surf will remain well above warning levels throughout the weekend, before returning to advisory levels for north and west shores by Tuesday.
Due to the severe conditions, Hawai’i County Civil Defense has closed several popular beaches, including Kahalu‘u Beach park, Onekahakaha Beach Park, James Kealoha Beach Park, Leleiwi Beach Park, and La‘aloa Bay Beach Park (Magic Sands – no ocean entry). These closures will remain in effect through Sunday, with the possibility of additional closures without prior notice.
For up-to-the-minute information on weather conditions and hazards, visit the Hawai‘i Hazard Impact Map.
Update (December 20, 5:11 p.m. HST): The high surf advisory for Kona and Kohala shores has been upgraded to a high surf warning, effective until 6 p.m. Sunday. West-facing shores are expected to see surf of 10 to 14 feet. Warning-level surf will continue across north and west shores of smaller islands, with a potential brief decrease late Saturday and Saturday night. West-facing shores of the Big Island will experience warning-level surf, while north-facing shores will see advisory-level surf.
Update (December 20, 5:42 a.m. HST): The National Weather Service expanded the high surf advisory to include north-facing shores of the Big Island, extending the advisory until 6 p.m.Saturday.
Big Island Battening Down the Hatches: High Surf Advisory Issued
Hawaii’s Big Island is bracing for a powerful series of swells expected to pound its western shores this weekend and into early next week. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Honolulu has issued a high surf advisory for the Kona and Kohala coastlines, warning of potentially dangerous conditions.
The advisory, effective until 6 a.m. Saturday, anticipates waves reaching 7 to 10 feet along west-facing shores. “Large breaking waves and strong currents will make swimming and other ocean activities dangerous,” the NWS warns. Forecasters emphasize the importance of heeding advice from ocean safety officials, adding, “When in doubt, don’t go out.”
The NWS predicts the largest swells will arrive late Saturday night into Sunday, potentially bringing the biggest surf of the season so far to north-facing shores. Waves of 6 to 8 feet are forecast for western shorelines.
A prolonged period of northwest swells is the culprit, with overlapping pulses creating the hazardous conditions. The NWS’s area forecast discussion from Thursday afternoon indicated the arrival of this long-period energy by Friday evening. The advisory level surf is expected to persist through late Saturday afternoon.
While the advisory specifically targets the Kona and Kohala coastlines, residents and visitors across the Big Island are urged to exercise caution near the ocean. Strong currents and unpredictable wave action pose a significant risk, making even experienced swimmers vulnerable.
The NWS continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed. For the latest information, visit the National Weather Service Honolulu website: https://www.weather.gov/hfo/AFD
Hawaii Braces for Battering Waves: A Conversation wiht Coastal Oceanographer Dr. Emily Carter
The big Island of Hawaii is facing the wrath of powerful winter swells,prompting high surf warnings and beach closures across various coastal areas. We sit down with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading coastal oceanographer, to discuss the situation and offer insights into this potent natural phenomenon.
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. Could you shed some light on what’s causing these extreme surf conditions currently impacting Hawaii?
Dr. Carter: It’s my pleasure to be here.These large waves are the result of a strong storm system developing far out in the north Pacific Ocean. these storms churn up powerful storms and generate large, long-period swells that travel thousands of miles across the ocean. When these swells finally reach the hawaiian islands, they can produce powerful surf and dangerous rip currents.
Senior Editor: We’ve heard reports of waves potentially reaching 20 feet or even higher on some shores. Is this typical for Hawaii at this time of year?
Dr. Carter: Winter is indeed Hawaii’s peak surf season, and large swells are not uncommon. Though, the forecast wave heights we’re seeing this time are definitely on the higher end of the spectrum.
The combination of multiple swell systems overlapping and arriving simultaneously is amplifying the wave heights.
Senior Editor: What are some of the risks associated with these powerful swells?
Dr. Carter: These conditions pose a significant risk to anyone venturing into the water. Rip currents, strong undertows, and powerful breaking waves can easily overpower even strong swimmers. Coastal communities also face potential hazards, including
flooding and erosion due to the surge of water being pushed onshore.
Senior Editor: What advice would you give to residents and tourists in Hawaii as these swells persist?
Dr. Carter: The most crucial piece of advice is to heed all warnings issued by local authorities and lifeguards. Stay away from the shoreline when warning flags are flying. avoid entering the water during these dangerous conditions and be aware that even seemingly calm areas can experiance strong currents.
If you are heading to the coast, be sure to check surf reports and pay attention to any beach closures or advisories. Remember, when in doubt, don’t go out.
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you so much for your insights. Your expertise helps us understand the severity of this situation and the importance of taking precautions.
Dr. Carter: You’re welcome. It’s important for everyone to prioritize safety during these events. By being informed and taking necessary precautions, we can definitely help minimize the risk to ourselves and our communities.
