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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Hanauma Bay closed again as jellyfish influx continues

Advertiser Staff

Hanauma Bay was closed yesterday, for a second day in a row, because of an influx of box jellyfish.

Yesterday was Day 2 of an expected four-day influx of the stinging jellyfish.

Bryan Cheplic of the city Emergency Services Department said lifeguards found more than 100 jellyfish on the beach at Hanauma Bay yesterday morning.

A smaller number of jellyfish were found at Yokohama Bay, Waikīkī Beach and Ala Moana Beach Park and warning signs were posted.

Hanauma Bay was closed Sunday after more than 40 jellyfish were found on the beach and numerous others spotted just offshore. More than 400 jellyfish were found Sunday at Yokohama Bay.

Box jellyfish also washed up yesterday on several Kaua'i beaches, a county news release said.

Kaua'i ocean safety officials said the creatures were found at Po'ipū, Salt Pond and Kekaha. Beachgoers were urged to check with lifeguards before entering the water.

Honolulu's Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division provides recorded updates of ocean conditions, advisories and warnings at 922-3888, ext. 51. Information is also available at www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.