High surf warning issued for north-, west-facing shores of Kaua‘i, Niʻihau

A large northwest (320 degrees) swell will arrive late tonight and rapidly build across the island chain on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service, which has issued a high surf warning for portions of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau.

The swell will produce warning-level surf along the islands’ north- and west-facing shores. Surf heights of 25 to 35 feet along north-facing shores, and 18 to 24 feet along west-facing shores, are anticipated.

“Expect very strong breaking waves and powerful currents. Waves breaking in channel entrances may make navigating the channels dangerous,” the National Weather Service said. “Stay away from the shoreline along the affected coasts. Be prepared for road closures. Postpone entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf until the surf subsides.”

The high surf warning is currently set to expire at 6 p.m. on Friday.