High Surf Warning for Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau in effect Jan. 4 to Jan. 5

Published on January 03, 2025

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a High Surf Warning for west- and north-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau in effect noon Jan. 4 to 6 p.m. Jan. 5. The warning may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.

The NWS forecasts that a series of large to extra-large northwest swells is due this weekend. Long-period forerunners are expected Saturday morning, and they will build quickly down the island chain Saturday afternoon and peak Saturday night and early Sunday. 

Surf is forecasted to rise to 15 to 20 feet along north-facing shores, and build to 20 to 30 feet Thursday afternoon. Surf for west-facing shores will begin at 8 to 12 feet, then rise to 15 to 22 feet.

Entering the water in these areas during the High Surf Warning is very hazardous and could cause serious injury or death. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.

For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit www.safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

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