County Officials Urge Safety as High Surf Conditions Persist

Historic high surf affecting the south-facing shores of the state are affecting portions of Kaua‘i and county officials are urging the public to stay safe.

Officials advise the public to stay away from shorelines along Po‘ipū, other areas on the south shore and west-facing beaches as significant wave run-ups on roadways and into properties have been reported. Other areas affected by the hazardous south swell include shorelines near Salt Pond Beach Park, Kekaha Beach Park and west-facing shorelines.

Ocean Safety Bureau officials are advising no swimming and snorkeling on south- and west-facing shores because of dangerous ocean conditions. Organizers with events near the affected shorelines also are urged to relocate or reconsider postponing their events. Officials anticipate conditions could peak during the evening high tide, which begins at about 6 p.m.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a high surf warning remains in effect for south-facing shores through 6 p.m. Monday. Large, breaking surf, significant shore break and dangerous currents make entering the water hazardous. Anyone entering the water could face significant injury or death.

Because of hazardous ocean conditions, road damage and runoff from the ocean, Ho‘one Road in Po‘ipū, from Kuai Road to Pe‘e Road, remains closed until further notice. The public is urged to avoid the area. Barricades and signs were installed.