Brown water advisory issued at Honokōhau Harbor in West Hawai‘i

Hawai’i Department of Health has issued a brown water advisory at Honokōhau Harbor in West Hawai‘i.

Beach and harbor users are advised to stay out of water when it appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain as it might contain higher-than-normal levels of pollutant.

If the water is brown, turn around.

State health officials recommend staying out of the water for 48 to 72 hours after rain has stopped and the area has received full sunshine.

Also avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.

Visit the state Health Department Clean Water Branch website for additional information about the brown water advisory.