High Surf, Rip Currents Prompt Ocean Rescues at Nāpili Bay

Nāpili Bay, Maui. (1.12.17)

Ocean safety and fire crews responded to multiple ocean rescues in West Maui on Wednesday as a large winter north swell arrived in the islands.

A 30-year-old Canadian man was assisted to shore when he became caught in a strong rip current while bodyboarding at Nāpili Bay.  The incident was reported at around 11:25 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, about 60-yards out in front of the Mauian Hotel.

A 51-year-old Wailuku man was also assisted to shore at  d Nāpili Bay when he became caught in a strong rip current while swimming about 40 yards out.  Crews responded to the call at 4:29 p.m. and arrived to find three males in the water.  Two of the swimmers were good Samaritans that were attempting to assist the swimmer in distress.

Both men were unharmed and did not require medical attention.

Fire officials say the phenomenon is a regular occurrence at Nāpili Bay when the area is inundated by large winter surf.  Surf heights were reported to be at 8-12 foot faces.

Authorities advise the public to stay out of the ocean during high surf warnings and stick to lifeguarded beaches where they can seek advice before entering the ocean.