Storm SE of New Zealand Sends Swell to South Shores of Maui

Mākena, Third Entrance in South Maui, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014. Photo by Jack Dugan.

By Maui Now Staff

A large storm southeast of New Zealand last week is sending a south-southwest swell toward the Hawaiian Islands, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency issued a high surf advisory for the south facing shores until 6 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014.

Forecasters from the NWS say the swell will build tonight, producing 6 to 8 foot surf across the south facing shores of Maui.

The forecast calls for surf to build to advisory levels tonight, and continue at elevated conditions through Wednesday night.

As a precaution, ocean goers are reminded to heed the advice of ocean safety officials.

Surf along affected shores is expected to bring strong breaking waves, shore break, and rip currents that will make swimming difficult and dangerous.