Posted on: Saturday, June 16, 2001

Lifeguards spot 900 box jellyfish off Waikiki, Ala Moana

Advertiser Staff

The third-largest box jellyfish influx of the year hit O'ahu yesterday, lifeguards said.

More than 900 of the creatures were seen or collected by lifeguards in Waikiki from waters in front of the Pacific Beach Hotel and Hawaiian Regent Hotel.

A smaller influx was observed in the swimming channel at Ala Moana Beach Park.

Other areas likely to be affected include Hanauma Bay, Poka'i Bay and Makaha Surfing Beach, according to Chief James Howe and Capt. Edmund Pestana of the city's Ocean Safety Division.

Lifeguards will assess beach conditions for the next several days and post warnings if the jellyfish are spotted.

People stung by box jellyfish should flush the affected area with copious amounts of vinegar, apply heat pads and, if the pain persists, seek medical attention.

Box jellyfish influxes occur regularly on southern beaches several days after a full moon.

Lifeguard stations are equipped to treat the stings.