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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Friday, August 14, 2009

Man-of-War invasion forces Hanauma Bay closure

Advertiser Staff

City officials closed Hanauma Bay yesterday because of a high number of Portuguese Man-of-War on the beach and in near-shore waters.

Lifeguards counted more than 2,000 Man-of-War at Hanauma Bay, the city said.

Twenty people were treated for stings at Waikiki Beach, 30 people at Waimanalo Beach Park and 45 people were treated at Kailua Beach, the city Emergency Services Department reported.

The Portuguese Man-of-War influx is not associated with the monthly box jellyfish influx expected to begin today.

Lifeguards will assess both the Man-of-War and box jellyfish influx tomorrow morning and decided whether to keep Hanauma Bay closed or reopen it to the public.

For information on ocean conditions, advisories, and warnings, the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division provides a recorded report at 922-3888, extension 51. People may also see conditions at www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.