20-25 Foot Surf Prompts Warning

Maui’s north shore. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A high surf warning was issued for the north facing shores of Maui, and the north and west facing shores of Molokai.

The National Weather Service issued the warning until 6 a.m. on Friday, March 22, due to dangerous swimming conditions and deadly rip currents.

Forecasters from the NWS expect surf to build to 20-25 foot range along the north facing shores this afternoon and tonight. Surf along the west facing shores is projected to be in the 15-20 foot range.

As a precaution, officials urge beach goers to stay out of the water and away from the shore break due to battering waves along the shoreline, and hazardous conditions.

The NWS states that the elevated surf is being generated by a large and long period west northwest swell.