graphic by BIVN

UPDATE – A High Surf Advisory is now in effect for west facing shores of the Big Island, replacing the High Surf Warning in effect earlier this morning. This swell is forecast to gradually lower today into tonight, but will be reinforced by northwest swells late Monday and Tuesday.

All County Beach Parks along the west facing shores from Keokea in North Kohala to Miloli`i in South Kona will be reopened today, says the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense. Overnight camping will not resume until tomorrow.

(BIVN) –  All County Beach Parks along the west facing shores – from Keokea in North Kohala to Miloliʻi in South Kona – will be closed today, as the High Surf Warning continues.

Surf heights along the Big Island will be 8 to 12 feet, lowering to 4 to 8 feet Monday.

According to the National Weather Service:

The large northwest swell will reach the rest of the Big Island waters later this morning. Otherwise the swell has or in the process of peaking at around 15 feet and 17 to 20 seconds. We expect dangerous surf conditions for today with heights well above the warning level, although the swell is expected to start trending lower later today. The surf should fall to advisory levels sometime tonight. The High Surf Warning could be extended into tonight if this is the case.

The highest threat for coastal impacts may coincide with high tide at 8 this morning, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense says.

“Oceanfront residents and beach-goers along affected shores are advised to be on the alert for high and dangerous surf,” a morning civil defense message stated. “Boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property. Closures of roads and beaches may occur without notice. You will be informed of any conditions that may affect your safety.”