High surf warning in effect

LIHU‘E — The National Weather Service issued a high surf warning for north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau in effect Jan. 2 at midnight to Jan. 3 at 6 a.m.

The NWS forecasts north-facing surf rapidly rising 20 to 30 feet, and west-facing shores rising 15 to 20 feet.

Entering the water in these areas during the warning is hazardous and could cause serious injury or death, according to a county press release issued Sunday. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large, breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline as well.

For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit weather.gov/hfo.

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

The warning may be extended, dropped or modified as conditions develop.