UPDATE: High Surf Warning extended for Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau until 6 a.m. Friday

Updated Jan. 13 at 9:19 a.m.: The National Weather Service’s High Surf Warning for portions of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau has transformed into a High Surf Advisory extended through 6 p.m. Sunday.

The change in status means the 18 to 24-foot surf now hitting north-facing shores, and the 10 to 14-foot surf hitting west-facing shores, is expected to lessen throughout today, until another northwest swell rises Saturday.

The NWS listed the forecast’s impact as “moderate” Friday morning, noting strong breaking waves and strong currents will make swimming dangerous.

“Heed all advice from ocean safety officials,” the NWS said. “When in doubt, don’t go
out.”

Updated Jan. 12 at 6:54 a.m.: The National Weather Service has extended a High Surf Warning for north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau until 6 a.m. Friday.

The forecast is for surf of 25 to 35 feet along north-facing shores, and 18 to 24 feet along west-facing shores of the smaller islands. Surf will gradually diminish tonight.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Warning for north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau.

The warning – which goes into effect tonight at midnight, and lasts until 6 p.m. Thursday – may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.

The NWS forecasts north-facing surf rising 40 to 50 feet, and west-facing shores rising 25 to 30 feet. Due to the hazardous conditions, Ocean Safety Bureau officials advise no swimming at north- and west-facing shores during the High Surf Warning.

“We encourage people to stay well away from the water and visit other lifeguarded beaches such as Kealia Beach, Lydgate Beach Park, Poipu Beach Park, and Salt Pond Beach Park,” said OSB Chief David Kalani Vierra. “Signs will be posted on Wednesday and into the weekend. Also, please check with lifeguards on current conditions.”

Entering the water in these areas during the High Surf Warning is very hazardous and could cause serious injury or death. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.

For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.