High Surf — Lanai Makai, Hawaii

2018-03-21 to 2018-03-22 · Lanai Makai, Hawaii

Wider weather episode

A large northeast swell generated surf of 10 to 20 feet along the north- and east-facing shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island. The surf most affected areas on the Big Island, where both lanes of Bayfront Highway in Hilo were shut down for a time on the 21st because of water and debris washing ashore, and county parks were closed from Coconut Island eastward through Keaukaha as water was coming into the parking areas. Lifeguards were busy in many areas due to the dangerous surf. However, no serious injuries or property damage were reported.

However, a 54-year-old male opihi picker was apparently swept away in the Kau District [South Big Island] at Kahakahakea Point on the 21st by a large wave as reported by the man's family members. It is not known if the wave was associated with the northeast swell.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 739589. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.