HONOLULU, Hawaii – Residents and visitors in Hawaii are advised to brace themselves for the impending impact of dangerous surf that is expected to strike the Hawaiian Islands in the next few days. The forecast includes the possibility of large waves reaching heights of up to 35 feet.
A High Surf Warning has been issued and will remain in effect until 6 p.m. on Thursday for the north- and west-facing shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, and Molokai, as well as the north-facing shores of Maui. The National Weather Service in Honolulu has cautioned that “dangerously large” breaking waves measuring between 20 to 30 feet are anticipated on Tuesday, followed by even larger waves ranging from 25 to 35 feet starting Tuesday night along the north-facing shores.
The potential impacts of this event are deemed to be severe, according to the NWS. The surge of ocean water is expected to sweep across beaches, coastal benches, and lava flows, posing a risk to coastal properties and infrastructure, including roadways. The NWS has also highlighted the presence of powerful longshore and rip currents at most beaches, emphasizing the likelihood of large breaking waves and strong currents affecting harbor entrances and channels, which could present challenges for boat navigation.
Original article source: Hawaii beaches threatened by 35-foot waves as dangerous surf expected to slam islands
