Update: Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau north, west shores now under high surf advisory

Update at 3:59 p.m. Feb. 26: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu report that the current large west-northwest to northwest swell did not get as large as expected and will quickly decline this evening and tonight.

So the high surf warning that was issued earlier today for the north and west shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau has been downgraded to a high surf advisory that is now in effect until 6 a.m. Thursday.

Large breaking waves of 12 to 16 feet are expected along the north and west shores of both islands. Those waves along with strong currents from the high surf will make swimming and other ocean activities in the advisory areas dangerous.

The public is urged to heed all advice from ocean safety officials. As always, when in doubt, don’t go out.

Original post from 8:36 a.m. Feb. 26: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu say surf will rapidly build down the island chain today with the arrival of a large northwest swell.

The high surf advisory that was in place for north and west shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau was upgraded to a high surf warning through 6 p.m. because wave heights along those shorelines are expected to exceed warning levels through today as the swell peaks before steadily declining tonight through Thursday morning.

Large surf of 20 to 28 feet is forecast along the north shores of both islands today, with breakers of 15 to 24 feet along west shores.

Expect very strong breaking waves and powerful currents in the advisory areas. Waves breaking in channel entrances can make navigation dangerous.

The public is urged to stay away from the shoreline along the affected coasts. Be prepared for road closures. Postpone entering or leaving affected channels until high surf conditions subside.

“Entering the water in these areas during the high surf warning is very hazardous and could cause serious injury or death,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department. “Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.”

Visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website for updated ocean and weather alert information.

Speak to a Kaua‘i County lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit the Safe Beach Day website or call the Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984 for up-to-date informtion about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety information.