Northwest Swell Builds to 15-20 Feet

High surf at Ho’okipa Beach on the North Shore. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.

By Wendy Osher

(Update: 3/1/13)

The National Weather Service has continued the High Surf advisory for the North and West facing shores of Molokai and the North facing shores of Maui until 6 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2013. Surf of 15 to 20 feet is expected along north facing shores of Molokai and Maui. Surf of 10 to 15 feet is expected along west facing shores of Molokai.

(Posted: 2/28/13)

A northwest swell is expected to build today and remain elevated through Friday.

The National Weather Service issued a high surf advisory for the north and west facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Niihau; and the north facing shores of Maui until 6 a.m. on Saturday.

Forecasters from the NWS say surf along the north facing shores will be in the 15 to 20 foot range, and along the west facing shores will be 10 to 15 feet.

As a result, swimming will be difficult and dangerous along affected shores where strong breaking waves and rip currents are expected.

Beach goers should heed the advice of Ocean Safety officials and exercise caution. The NWS says boaters should be aware of recreational surfers that utilize harbor channels for access to surf areas.

The NWS reminds the public to, “Know your limits. When in doubt, don’t go out.”