The first north swell of the winter season roared into Hanalei Bay and other portions of the North Shore, bringing with it waves of up to 25 feet. No beaches were closed, but Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau supervisors
The first north swell of the winter season roared into Hanalei Bay and other portions of the North Shore, bringing with it waves of up to 25 feet. No beaches were closed, but Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau supervisors warned novice surfers and swimmers about the dangers of the high surf yesterday, according to Kalani Vierra, KFD Ocean Safety Bureau supervisor .
National Weather Service officials issued a high-surf warning for the north and west facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau until at least 9 a.m. today, Thursday, Nov. 17.
A high-surf warning means damaging surf is expected, or is already occurring, along those affected shorelines, according to a National Weather Service spokesperson.
Coastal residents should take precautions to protect life and property from large waves and resulting coastal flooding in the affected areas, the National Weather Service forecaster said .
Residents and visitors were urged to avoid the ocean water in these areas, the federal official said .
Waves of 20 to 30 feet were reported or expected for north-facing shores, and 12 to 20 feet for west-facing shorelines, forecasters said .
Officials with the KFD Ocean Safety Bureau are recommending that novice swimmers and surfers avoid go- ommending going in the water today on the North Shore from Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park to Ke‘e Beach at Ha‘ena State Park .
The huge waves brought crowds to the North Shore, both those carrying surfboards to catch waves during the first major north swell, but also to check out the pounding surf .
Anyone with questions about ocean conditions may check with lifeguards at county beaches, or contact the KFD Ocean Safety Bureau at 241-6506 .
