Swell dropping, but still dangerous, Oahu lifeguards say
Advertiser Staff
A northwest swell is diminishing but will continue to generate high surf along most of Hawaii's north- and west-facing shores today.
A high-surf warning remains in effect until 6 tonight.
Bryan Cheplic of the city's Emergency Services Department says waves have dropped considerably from yesterday's 25- to 35-footers but remain dangerously large.
"We're seeing 10 to 15 feet, with occasional 20-foot sets," Cheplic said. "Lifeguards are asking people to check with them before going into the water and to pay attention to all warning signs."
Cheplic said lifeguards also would keep wave-watchers off the rocks at places such as Sharks Cove.
The National Weather Service has forecast waves of 20 to 25 feet along north-facing shores and 12 to 20 feet on west-facing shores today.
The swell also has prompted the weather service to issue a small-craft advisory for most Hawaiian waters.
The city's Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division provides recorded updates on ocean conditions at 922-3888, ext. 51, or go to: www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.
The National Weather Service’s Web site is at: www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/.