Update: High surf advisory for Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau is canceled

7:15 a.m. Jan. 19 update: High surf advisory is canceled.

4:05 p.m. Jan. 18 update: The high surf advisory in effect for most north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau has been extended until 6 a.m. Friday.

A moderate, medium period west-northwest swell will steadily fall through Friday. Surf heights of 12 to 16 feet along north-facing shores and 8 to 12 feet along west-facing shores can be expected as advisory conditions continue.

Heed all advice from ocean safety officials. When in doubt, don’t go out.

9:36 a.m. Jan. 18 update: A high surf advisory is in effect for most north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau through 6 p.m.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, surf of 15 to 20 feet along north-facing shores is expected and 8 to 12 feet along west-facing shores.

Strong-breaking waves and currents will make swimming dangerous.

8:52 a.m. Jan. 18 update: The high surf warning is canceled.

Original post: A high surf warning was issued for north- and west-facing shores of Kaua‘i and north-facing shores of Ni‘ihau which is currently in effect through 6 p.m. on Thursday. The warning may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a large west-northwest swell will peak Wednesday night, producing dangerously large breaking waves of 25 to 35 feet for north-facing shores and 18 to 22 feet for west-facing shores through Thursday.

Entering the water in these areas during the high surf warning is very hazardous and could cause serious injury or death. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.

For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit www.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 www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.