Brown water advisory issued for southwest shorelines from Ki‘ilae Bay to Ka Lae, or South Point

A brown water advisory is in effect for shorelines from Ki‘ilae Bay and south to Ka Lae, or South Point, along the southwest portion of the Big Island because of heavy rain and/or high surf associated with the powerful kona low last weekend.

The advisory was issued Saturday, March 21.

Hawai‘i Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially after storms or heavy rainfall because higher-than-normal pollutant levels are possible.

Department officials recommend staying out of the water for 48 to 72 hours after rain stops and the beach received full sunshine.

The department also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or pond to prevent the bacterial infection leptospirosis.

Find additional information about leptospirosis on the Hawai‘i Department of Health website.