High surf forecast for south-facing shores

A high surf advisory for south-facing shores of the Big Island remains in effect until 6 p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

A strong low pressure system near New Zealand last week generated open ocean swells that are expected to reach Hawaiian waters through Friday.

Wave heights of 5 to 8 feet are forecast for south-facing shores of the Big Island’s northern, Kona, eastern and southern coasts, forecasters said.

Forecasters categorized the surf’s impact as “moderate,” cautioning of strong breaking waves, shore break and strong currents that can make swimming dangerous.