High-Surf Warning Issued for North and West Shores

The National Weather Service has issued a high-surf warning for north and north-west facing shores of the Big Island.

According to the county Civil Defense Agency, special caution is urged for shores of leeward Kohala, Kona and Ka`u, from Upolu Point to South Point.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning for north and north-west facing shores of the Big Island.

Special caution is urged for shores of leeward Kohala, Kona and Ka`u, from Upolu Point to South Point.

The weather service expects high and dangerous surf to continue through Sunday morning.

Wave heights are expected from 20 to 30 feet along north-facing shores and up to 20 feet on west-facing shores, the weather service said.

The warning advises that coastal and boating activities be postponed until conditions are safe.

Boat owners in the affected areas should take measures to secure their vessels and all residences near the shore should take measures to secure their property. All safety measures should be completed before nightfall.

County officials are also cautioning the public to use care when driving on Ali`i Drive in Kona on Saturday. Slight delays are expected because of the potentially high surf and the holding of the annual Shane Dorian Keiki Surf Meet.

The meet is scheduled for to be held all day at Banyan’s surf spot, or nearby Lyman’s surf spot, should the predicted large surf arrive in Kona that morning.

A high-wind advisory is also in effect until 6 p.m. Friday for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.