Maui, Molokaʻi Shores Under High Surf Warning

High surf at Ho‘okipa Beach on the North Shore. File photo by Madeline Ziecker.

A high surf warning has been issued for the north facing shores of Maui, as well as the north and west facing shores of Molokaʻi.

The warning is expected to remain in effect until 6 p.m. on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

“A high surf warning means 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.”

A long-period northwest swell is expected to steadily build through the day on Saturday and peak late in the afternoon and into the night.

Officials say the swell could gradually decrease on Sunday and into early next week.

Waves are forecasted to rise to 24 to 34 feet on Saturday and lower to 20 to 28 feet on Sunday along north facing shores of Molokaʻi and Maui. West facing shores of Molokaʻi could see 15 to 25 foot waves on Saturday and 12 to 20 foot waves on Sunday.

Forecast surf heights are estimates of the height of the face or front of waves.

Officials warn that the heightened surf could impact coastal property and nearby roadways.

During these dangerous conditions, officials say, only highly experienced swimmers should enter the water. The public is urged to remain off beaches and beachfront areas.

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

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

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