Brown water advisory canceled for Hilo Bay along Hāmākua Coast
Update at 3:25 p.m. Oct. 9, 2026: A brown water advisory previously in effect for Hilo Bay along the Hāmākua Coast is canceled. However, state health officials still urge the public to avoid brown, murky coastal waters, especially following storms or heavy rainfall.
Originally published 10:42 a.m. Sept. 28, 2026: A brown water advisory has been issued at Hilo Bay along the Hāmākua Coast.
The Hawai‘i Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain, even if a brown water advisory has not been issued in the area. After storms or heavy rain, the water may contain higher than normal pollutant levels.
The department recommends staying out of these affected waters for 48-72 hours after the rain has stopped and after the beach has received full sunshine.
The Department of Health also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in, or drinking water from any freshwater streams or pond to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.
If the water is brown, turn around.
