Update: High surf advisory upgraded to warning for Big Island north and west shorelines

7:34 p.m. Jan. 17 update: A high surf advisory for portions of Hawai‘i Island has been upgraded to a warning. The warning is in place till 6 p.m. Thursday.

The warning is in place for shores along the North Kohala, South Kohala, North Kona and South Kona Districts.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, an extra large west-northwest swell (300-320 degrees) will peak tonight, producing dangerous surf.

Large breaking waves of 12 to 16 feet are expected west-facing shores.

The National Weather Service warns that strong breaking waves and powerful currents will make navigating channels dangerous.

Original post: The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for all west-facing shores of Hawai‘i Island, from ‘Upolu Point in North Kohala to South Point in Ka‘u through Thursday.

Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials; and when in doubt, don’t go out.