HAWAII ISLAND – A high surf warning has prompted the closure of some Kona beaches.

According to Hawaii County Civil Defense, “very high surf and dangerous conditions are occurring and have been reported at many of the beaches in the West Hawaii area.”

Closed at this time:

• Kahaluu Beach Park
• La’aloa Beach Park (Magic Sands)
• Kekaha Kai State Park
• Ku’a Bay
• Hapuna Beach Park

Every island in the State of Hawaii is under a High Surf Warning. Hawaii Island is actually expected to have the smallest wave heights at 10 to 15 feet. Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Molokai are braced for 40 foot waves along north and west facing shores. From the National Weather Service:

Surf

North and west facing shores of Niihau and Kauai and north facing shores of Oahu, Molokai and
Maui… 30 to 40 feet.

West facing shores of Oahu and Molokai… 15 to 25 feet.

West facing shores of the Big Island… 10 to 15 feet.

Timing

Through tonight.

Impacts

Extreme. Giant, breaking surf… very large shorebreak… and dangerous currents will make it extremely hazardous to approach the shoreline. Anyone approaching the shoreline could face significant injury or death. Significant coastal inundation and property damage is possible. Road closures may occur and breaking waves may make it impossible to enter or leave harbors.National Weather Service, January 23, 2014