PO‘IPU — First responders conducted multiple ocean rescues in Po‘ipu on Tuesday during high surf conditions, county officials reported.
Around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, first responders were dispatched to a surf rescue at Po‘ipu Beach Park involving a 47-year-old male who suffered facial injuries and multiple body abrasions.
Personnel with the Koloa fire station, the Ocean Safety Bureau South Roving Ski Patrol, and American Medical Response responded to the incident.
According to a preliminary report, first responders arrived on scene and discovered four individuals outside the surf break attempting to swim to shore.
Officials observed wave heights with 15-foot faces. Two of the individuals were at a surf break commonly known as Nukumoi’s when they encountered a large wave that caused them to lose their boards. One of the surfers hit the reef and suffered injuries to his face and body. OSB personnel on jet ski and three firefighters with rescue tubes made their way through the surf and helped the individuals to shore.
American Medical Response personnel assessed the 47-year-old surfer while transporting him to Wilcox Medical Center for further treatment.
The scene was cleared at 6:30 p.m.
The second incident, involving an ocean rescue at the Waihohai surf break in Po‘ipu, was reported at approximately 7 p.m.
First responders with the Koloa fire station and the OSB South Roving Ski Patrol responded to the incident.
According to a preliminary report, firefighters were dispatched to the surf break after three swimmers were seen in distress. When they arrived on the scene, two of the swimmers had made it safely to shore, while one swimmer was in the water being assisted by a bystander. A firefighter entered the water and brought the swimmer safely to shore.
All three swimmers declined medical treatment.
The scene was cleared at approximately 7:20 p.m.
A High Surf Advisory for south-facing shores will continue through Thursday morning, with large breaking waves expected up to 10 to 14 feet.
Ocean Safety Bureau officials advise no swimming since High Surf Advisory remains in effect for south-facing shores through Thursday morning.
“These hazardous ocean conditions can put you and our first responders at significant risk for severe injury or worse,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Steven Goble. “I am grateful to our first responders for their swift response in Tuesday’s South Shore rescues.”
The advisory may be extended or modified as conditions develop. For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit the NWS website, weather.gov/hfo. For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 80241-4984.
