HAWAII ISLAND – The shores of East Hawaii are under a High Surf Warning as swells from Hurricane Olaf will produce large, hazardous waves.
Surf heights of 6 to 10 feet will increase to 12 to 18 feet by this evening, reports the National Weather Service. The waves will be rising into Thursday and continuing through Saturday. Forecasters predict high impacts.
“Expect ocean water occasionally sweeping across portions of beaches, very strong breaking waves and strong longshore and rip currents. Breaking waves may occasionally impact harbors making navigating the harbor channel dangerous. Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should always heed lifeguard advice and know your limits. When in doubt, do not go out.”National Weather Service
“Beach goers, surfers, and swimmers are advised to exercise caution and to heed all advice given by Ocean safety Officials. Residents in low lying coastal areas prone to high surf and surge impacts and boat owners are advised to take necessary precautions. Presently all beach parks are open and conditions will be monitored. Although Olaf is forecast to remain far to the east of Hawaii Island, the system will be monitored closely and updates will be provided. Please monitor your local radio station broadcasts for additional updates.”Hawaii County Civil Defense
Hurricane Olaf is 845 miles southeast of Hilo and is presently moving northwest at 7 mph. Olaf has rapidly weakened in the last 24 hours and is currently a Category Three hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 120 mph. The storm is forecast to gradually curve toward the north through Friday morning, well to the east of the Hawaiian Islands. However, big surf is still headed towards East Hawaii, and the large swell will spread across the rest of the state by Friday.
by Big Island Video News
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STORY SUMMARY
The shores of East Hawaii are under a High Surf Warning as swells from Hurricane Olaf will produce large, hazardous waves.