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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 3:45 p.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2008

1,000 jellyfish found on Oahu during late influx

By Dave Dondoneau
Advertiser Staff Writer

The monthly box jellyfish influx came a day late and hit an unusual spot.

Ocean Safety officials found more than1,000 box jellyfish today at Wakiki and Ala Moana Beach Park.

The influx came 11 days after the last full moon instead of the typical 10, said Emergency Services spokesman Bryan Cheplic. Also, of the 1,000 found today, 400 were at Ala Moana.

"That's unusual," Cheplic said. "With the reef outside of the Ala Moana it typically doesn't get many, if any, jellyfish during the influx. Last month when 2,000 were found in Waikiki zero were found at Ala Moana.

"I couldn't tell you why that happens. It's just Mother Nature being highly unpredictable again."

Monday was supposed to be the peak day for the influx, but zero were found on any of O'ahu's beaches. Cheplic said he isn't sure what to expect today, but lifeguards and ocean safety officials will again comb the beaches and monitor the waters.

Seventy people were treated for stings in Waikiki today and 12 more were treated at Ala Moana Beach Park.

Cheplic said 165 box jellyfish were also found at Pokai Bay in Nanakuli, but no stings reported

Lifeguards assess beaches for box jellyfish during the alert period. If box jellyfish are discovered warning signs are posted as warranted.

Persons stung by box jellyfish are advised to flush the sting area with copious amounts of white vinegar.

Anyone experiencing breathing difficulty, muscle cramps/spasms, and/or persistent pain are advised to seek immediate medical attention.

For public information regarding ocean conditions, advisories, and warnings, the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division provides a pre-recorded report which can be accessed 24 hours a day at 922-3888 x 51 or visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.

Reach Dave Dondoneau at ddondoneau@honoluluadvertiser.com.