Update at 4:03 a.m. Jan. 7, 2026: National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu canceled the high surf advisory that was previously in effect for east-facing shores throughout the state, including Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
Forecasters report that surf has fallen below advisory levels along those shorelines; therefore, a high surf advisory is no longer needed.
This was the last advisory, watch or warning to end or be canceled since late last week when the National Weather Service started issuing inclement and severe weather statements and products because of anticipated impacts from what was likely not a "classic" kona low.
Original story published at 4:55 a.m. Jan. 5, 2026:
High surf advisory
The National Weather Service forecast office in Honolulu has issued a high surf advisory that goes into effect from 6 a.m. Monday through 6 a.m. Wednesday for parts of Kauaʻi.
An easterly wind fetch generated by lowering pressures south and west of the state will significantly increase easterly wind wave swell. The building east swell will impact most east-facing shores of all islands through early Wednesday.
This smaller-period chop will reach advisory heights early Monday.
Surf heights of between 10 and 12 feet are forecast, causing strong breaking waves and strong currents that will make swimming dangerous.
The public should heed all advice from ocean safety officials — when in doubt, don’t go out.
Coastal flood statement
Forecasters in Honolulu have extended the coastal flood statement in effect for all low-lying coastal areas of the state — including on Kauaʻi and Niʻihau — through early Tuesday morning (Jan. 6).
Peak monthly high tides combined with higher-than-predicted water levels will continue to lead to minor flooding along shorelines and in low-lying coastal areas.
Minor coastal flooding is most likely near the daily peak high tides, which will happen in the early morning hours.
Flood watch
A flood watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. Monday because of additional inclement and possible severe weather associated with a Kona low northwest of the state that is shifting southward, drawing deep moisture up and throughout the islands.
