High Surf Warning Update for West Hawaiʻi
As of January 18, 2025, the National Weather Service in Honolulu has canceled the high surf warning for the west coast of the Big Island. Surf heights have now dropped below both warning and advisory levels.
Beach Closures Due to Hazardous Conditions
Earlier on January 18, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense reported that the high surf warning, combined with hazardous ocean conditions along the western shores of the Big Island, had led to the closure of several county beach parks. These included Kahaluʻu, Laʻaloa, Pāhoehoe, Kohanaiki, and Māhukona beach parks. Additional closures could be implemented with little or no notice. Beachgoers were advised to follow all instructions from ocean safety officials.
Forecast Details and Warnings
The high surf warning had initially been extended until 6 p.m. on January 18, 2025, covering the entire western coastline of the island from ʻUpolu Point in North Kohala to South Point in Kaʻū. Surf heights during this period were forecasted to range between 8 and 12 feet. These powerful waves were expected to create dangerous swimming conditions and strong currents, posing risks for all ocean activities. Breaking waves also threatened to make navigating channel entrances hazardous.
Previous High Surf Incident
This warning came less than two weeks after a tragic incident in which a 35-year-old man from Ohio drowned off the Kona Coast. He was struck by large waves and swept into the ocean, unable to swim back to shore. This serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with extreme surf conditions.
Recommendations for Safety
The public was strongly urged to stay away from western shorelines and avoid entering or leaving channels until the surf had subsided. Additionally, there was a possibility of coastal road closures with little or no notice due to surging ocean water, which could sweep across beaches and impact coastal properties and infrastructure.
For ongoing updates and detailed forecasts, individuals were directed to consult the National Weather Service’s Honolulu website.