An early morning check showed about 400 box jellyfish along Waikiki Beach today , said Bryan Cheplic, spokesman for the city Emergency Services Department.

That number is up sharply from the two marine jellies found in the Waikiki area yesterday, but this month's influx of the tiny marine creatures is still considered "moderate," Cheplic said.

"Today is expected to be the peak, so it looks this month's influx won't be too bad," Cheplic said.

The box jellies pack a powerful sting, one that can prove fatal in rare cases.

People heading for beaches staffed by city and county lifeguards should check with them before entering ocean waters today, Cheplic said.

Information of the box jellies is also available at the Web sites www.808jellyfish.com or www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.