Dangerous ocean conditions and extremely high surf were reported on the North Shore by the Kaua‘i Fire Department yesterday. “The Hanalei firefighters told me that they have never seen waves this big before,” Battalion Chief Sean Hosaka said, according to
Dangerous ocean conditions and extremely high surf were reported on the North Shore by the Kaua‘i Fire Department yesterday.
“The Hanalei firefighters told me that they have never seen waves this big before,” Battalion Chief Sean Hosaka said, according to a press release. “The waves are going on top of Hanalei pier and the parking lot at Black Pot Beach is completely covered.”
The Hanalei Fire Department reported swells breaking over the pier onto Weke Road, washing over the road.
According to Ocean Safety Bureau acting supervisor Mark McKamey waves breaking on the North Shore yesterday had between 15- to 30-foot faces.
Fifteen to 20 foot faces were reported in the Kekaha area.
According to the National Weather Service, the surf is high due to a weakening cold front moving down the island chain. The winds are coming from the north, topping out at 30 mph. The trades are expected to turn more easterly over the next few days and will be light by Wednesday.
A high surf warning and small craft advisory will be in effect until this morning. More of the same is expected in the swell size.
Beachgoers are asked to not go in the water on the North Shore, said county spokesperson Mary Daubert.
“I strongly recommend that people go to other guarded beaches on the island,” Hosaka said.
South Shore and Lydgate beaches will not be affected by high surf.
