Ocean Blog
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo researchers confirm sewage leaking into Keaukaha waters
The newly published study reveals sewage from cesspools and the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant is entering Keaukaha’s coastal waters faster than previously recorded.
Brown water advisory canceled for Big Island after almost a week
The advisory was issued Jan. 31 by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean Water Branch for the entire island because of stormwater runoff entering coastal waters from heavy rains associated with the significant winter storm that moved through the state at the end of last week.
Bill aimed at keeping illegal ahi off people’s plates to be considered by full U.S. Senate
The lllegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act would support Hawaiʻi fisherman and expose anyone trying to pass off cheap tuna for high-quality Hawaiʻi ahi.
Update: High surf advisory extended for east-facing shores of Big Island
National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu forecast surf up to 12 feet, causing strong breaking waves and strong currents that will make swimming and certain other ocean activities dangerous.
State boating division responds to several boat groundings after major winter storm
In light of the groundings, Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation Administrator Meghan Statts reiterated that boat owners and operators should pay attention to weather forecasts, avoid going out in advance of storms and check that their lines are secure in harbors or while tied to moorings.
Update: Big Island officially weathers major winter storm
Several Hawaiʻi County facilities remained closed Friday despite weather conditions improving. Fewer than 100 customers remained without power as of 6 p.m. Friday. A brown water advisory is in effect for the entire island because of stormwater runoff entering coastal waters.
Update: High surf warning canceled for West Hawaiʻi
National Weather Service in Honolulu says surf heights have fallen below warning and advisory levels.
Update: High surf takes toll on portion of Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Royal Grounds, 1871 Trail and picnic area at the park will reopen. However, Puʻuhonua Trail will remain closed until further notice for repairs.
Dead humpback whale calf discovered on Maui shore
Staff from several state and federal agencies, with assistance from others, are working to tow the whale remains offhsore, as requested by Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners.
Update: Civil Defense reports Kahaluʻu, Magic Sands beaches to reopen
Hawaiʻi County agency made the announcement after the last surf-related advisory for the Big Island’s western shores was canceled early Sunday morning.
‘More than a canoe’: Hōkūleʻa a symbol of resilience, revival, cultural pride, stewardship, peace, hope
Polynesian Voyaging Society prepares to mark 5 decades of legendary iconic traditional double-hulled voyaging canoe reviving the Hawaiian culture, advocating for the environment and renewing a connection to the Earth and ocean.
US Coast Guard medevacs man from vessel 8 miles offshore of Honoka‘a
U.S. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders received a report at 3:22 p.m. Monday from the captain of fishing vessel Honua-‘Oe requesting a medevac for a 51-year-old man who injured his abdomen when he fell into a porthole.
Update: All high surf advisories canceled for Big Island
Surf has finally dropped below advisory levels for the first time since early last week. Hawai‘i County Civil Defense said all county beach parks that were closed because of the high surf event are expected to open by noon today.
Species of red algae discovered outside Papahānaumokuākea marine monument creates more questions
Chondria tumulosa earned the reputation for being a ‘nuisance alga’ because of its mat-forming behavior, ability to spread rapidly and unknown origin, which have posed significant challenges for reef conservation.
National Weather Service issues coastal flood statement for weekend
Best chance for impacts — which will include flooding of normally dry beaches, minor coastal erosion and saltwater inundation — will occur especially during the early morning high tides and daybreak from midnight through late Sunday.
Study: Peak energy requirements for humpback moms-to-be coincide with migration, fasting
The University of Hawai’i-led research team determined the energy costs of the first two-thirds of pregnancy are negligible, comprising 0.01% to 1.08% of the energy used. The majority of energy needs come in the third trimester, when requirements spike to 98.2%.
Update: Tsunami warning canceled for portions of US West Coast following magnitude-7 quake
Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu said there was no threat of tsunami waves in Hawai‘i.
Long-awaited dedging of Wailoa Small Boat Harbor in Hilo finally completed
Dredging of the shallow Wailoa harbor became a critical concern for Hawai‘i Island boaters after the Pohoiki boat ramp in Puna was surrounded and cut off by lava during the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea volcano.
Honokōhau Harbor’s new Hawaiian monk seal pup neighbor welcomed, but maybe too much?
State and The Marine Mammal Center partner for public outreach and education campaign for fishers and boaters at West Hawai’i harbor to remind them that some actions can make the endangered 5-month-old monk seal rely on people for food or get too close to fishing hooks, etc.
Sharing the joy of surfing, ‘one ride at a time’
Free annual Surfers Healing camp scheduled this weekend at Richardson Ocean Park in Hilo, giving keiki with autism and other disabilities the unique experience of catching some waves with professionals.
