A swell shifting to the north-northeast late Sunday night and continuing into the work week is prompting a high surf warning for the island’s north and east facing shores. The warning was issued by the National Weather Service after 4 p.m. on Sunday.
According to the agency, the most dangerous, warning level surf is expected along east facing shores, with lesser, but still advisory level waves, coming in up north. They say that the 10 to 15 foot waves will likely wash over Bayfront Highway in Hilo, which may lead to road closures in the makai lane of the highway.
Hawaii County Civil Defense officials say that the affected shorelines run between Hawi and Hamakua, and down south toward Pohoiki. They are reminding residents in those areas that the conditions are not for those who are looking for a leisurely swim, as dangerous waters and rip currents could be life-threatening. Officials are also reminding those who own boats or other property on these shores to take the necessary measures to keep their items safe.
The warning is currently posted until 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning, even as high surf is expected to remain elevated by that time.
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