Maui, Molokaʻi Shores to See ʻDangerous, Battering Wavesʻ

File photo by Madeline Ziecker.

Surf along the north-facing shores of Maui and Molokaʻi is expected to reach 18 to 25 feet this afternoon and continue until 6 p.m. tomorrow, the National Weather Service warned.

The agencyʻs high surf warning also included beaches on west Molokaʻi, which could see 15 to 20-foot waves. Forecast surf heights are estimates of the stature of the face, or front of waves.

“A high surf warning and that dangerous, battering waves will pound the shoreline,” an announcement from the county read.

“This will result in very dangerous swimming conditions, and deadly rip currents.”

County officials warn that surging waters will likely sweep across beaches, potentially impacting coastal properties and infrastructure, including roadways.

“Powerful long shore and rip currents will be present at most beaches,” the county added.

“Large breaking waves and strong currents may impact harbor entrances and channels causing challenging boat handling.”

Inexperienced swimmers are urged to remain off beaches and adjacent beachfront areas.

“Large breaking surf, significant shore-break and dangerous currents, make entering the water very hazardous,” the county announcement concluded.

“Anyone entering the water could face significant injury or death.”

Click here for weather notifications from the county.