UPDATE: Severe thunderstorms continue moving over leeward, windward and Kaua‘i Channel waters

Update at 5:17 a.m. March 12, 2026: The National Weather Service forecast office in Honolulu extended the special marine warning for leeward and windward waters of Kaua‘i and Kaua‘i Channel until 6:45 a.m. today (March 12).

Radar indicated at 4:41 a.m. an area of severe thunderstorms centered 23 nautical miles — or about 26.5 miles — southeast of FAD Buoy CK — or 30 nautical miles — equal to about 34.5 miles — southeast of Poʻipū that is capable of producing waterspouts, moving northeast at 20 knots — or about 23 mph.

Locations impacted include Kahuku Point, FAD Buoy CK, FAD Buoy DK, Kilauea Lighthouse, Kikiaola Harbor, FAD Buoy J, FAD Buoy CO and Haleiwa Harbor.

Story originally posted at 4:18 a.m. March 12, 2026: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu issued a special marine warning in effect until 5:45 a.m. today (March 12) for Kaua‘i Channel as well as leeward and windward waters of Kaua‘i.

Radar indicated at 3:49 a.m. severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts along a line extending from 32 nautical miles — or nearly 37 miles — south of FAD Buoy CK to 39 nautical miles — or nearly 45 miles — southeast of the southern tip of Ni’ihau, moving northeast at 35 knots — or slightly more than 40 mph.

Locations impacted include Makahuena Point, FAD Buoy CK and FAD Buoy Z.

Waterspouts — which can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas — and wind gusts of 34 knots — or nearly 40 mph — and possibly greater are possible with these thunderstorms.

Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.

Seafarers and the public are advised to prepare for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas and blinding downpours. Stay low or go below, and make sure all on board your vessel are wearing life jackets.