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

Forecasters with the National Weather Service have issued a high surf warning for the north- and west-facing shores of Niʻihau and Kauaʻi until 6 p.m. Saturday.

According to the National Weather Service, a large west-northwest to northwest swell will build down the island chain this afternoon and tonight. Surf along north and west shores of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau will rise above advisory thresholds later this afternoon.

Surf is predicted to build to reach 12 to 20 feet this afternoon, with peaks at 20 to 25 feet tonight along the north-facing shores. The west-facing shores are predicted to see surf reach 8 to 15 feet this afternoon before peaking at 15 to 20 feet tonight.

According to the forecasters, impacts could be high with strong breaking waves and powerful currents. Waves breaking in channel entrances may make navigating the channels dangerous.

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

The swell is expected to decline sharply Saturday afternoon and evening, with surf expected to fall below advisory levels by Sunday morning.