High surf warning issued for north- and west-facing shores of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau

A high surf warning for north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau is in effect through 6 p.m. Wednesday, as a powerful northwest swell moves into the islands, according to forecasters at the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

Forecasters said surf is expected to rise rapidly along exposed coastlines Monday evening, with wave heights peaking Tuesday, Feb. 3, well above warning thresholds.

An unusually large northwest swell, combined with overlapping wave pulses, is expected to keep surf elevated through Wednesday before conditions gradually improve along north-facing shores. Wave heights are forecast to reach 20 to 30 feet overnight, building to 30 to 45 feet by Tuesday afternoon, according to the weather service.

West-facing shores are expected to see surf increase from 15 to 20 feet to 20 to 30 feet during the same period. Officials warned that ocean conditions during the advisory period will be extremely dangerous.

Entering the water could result in serious injury or death, and beachgoers were urged to remain cautious, as large breaking waves may also pose hazards along the shoreline.

The warning may be extended, modified, or canceled depending on changing conditions. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and consult county lifeguards for the latest information on ocean safety and beach conditions.

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