8-12 Foot Surf Forecast for East Shores

East Maui, High Surf. File photo by Wendy Osher.

A high surf advisory has been issued for the east facing shores of Maui and Molokaʻi, in effect until 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020.

Surf is expected to be in the 6 to 10 foot range, rising to 8 to 12 feet on Wednesday, and building further into Thursday, according to the NWS.

The agency says strong trade winds near and upstream of the islands are producing the large and rough surf.

The public can expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and strong longshore and rip currents, which will make swimming difficult and dangerous. The combination of high surf, strong onshore winds and elevated ocean water levels will result in beach erosion and wave run-up along east facing shores later in the week, when full moon high tides coincide with the elevated surf.

The NWS advises beachgoers, swimmers, and surfers to heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution. “Know your limits and seek ocean recreation areas best suited for your abilities. When in doubt, don’t go out.”