Hanauma to reopen when jellyfish risk is over

By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer

Hanauma Bay was closed yesterday for the first time in two years because of an influx of box jellyfish.

Park officials began to close the beach to snorkelers and swimmers about 11 a.m. after about 50 people reported being stung by the jellyfish, park manager Alan Hong said. He said no one was seriously injured.

Hong said the city's Ocean Safety & Lifeguard Services will make an assessment of the beach at first light today before deciding if the bay is safe enough to reopen. Typically, people are lined up at the park's gate by 6 a.m. but he said they will have to wait until a decision is made.

It was the second straight day that Hanauma Bay was closed. On Thursday, a power failure caused by Wednesday's strong winds forced officials to turn visitors away.

Last September, officials closed Hanauma to swimmers after more than 30 people reported being stung by Portuguese man-of-war.

A jellyfish advisory is in effect until tomorrow, but Ocean Safety officials said the number of jellyfish should taper off beginning today. Areas affected by the jellyfish include such north and west beaches as Waimea Bay, 'Ehukai, Sunset, Poka'i Bay, Ma'ili and Makaha.

At Waikiki and Ala Moana beaches yesterday, Ocean Safety officials reported a "moderate" influx of jellyfish and about 250 stings.

Large numbers of the stinging creatures usually hit O'ahu shores nine days after a full moon. People with allergies to stings should stay out of the water, city officials said.

Reach Curtis Lum at culum@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8025.