A high surf advisory is now in effect for for south- and east-facing shores of the Big Island until 6 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.
Strong trade winds upstream of the islands will continue to bring rough and elevated surf to east facing shores through Thursday, forecasters said. In addition, a long-period south-southwest swell from the southern hemisphere will produce high surf along south facing shores through Thursday.
The service forecast waves ranging in height from 6 feet to 8 feet along the island’s southern, northern, eastern and Kona coastlines.
The service categorized the surf’s impact as “moderate,” noting that the public should expect strong breaking waves, shorebreak and longshore and rip currents that can make swimming difficult and dangerous. Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers are urged to heed all advice given by ocean safety officials.