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As Hurricane Fausto surf approaches east shores, Ocean Safety officials say they are especially concerned about the shoreline and tide pools below the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, which can be dangerous under normal conditions.
Honolulu Ocean Safety officials are urging the public to avoid the Makapuu tide pools and to be careful near southern and eastern shorelines as swells generated by Hurricane Fausto threaten the islands.
Long-period swell from Hurricane Fausto, currently well over 1,000 miles east of Hilo, are expected to begin reaching east shores late this weekend and build through early next week, officials said in news release.
Fausto-generated advisory-level surf is expected to develop by Sunday or Monday, and growing larger Tuesday or Wednesday, they said.
In the meantime, a high surf advisory remains in effect for south shores of all islands through 6 a.m. Sunday with waves of 7 to 12 feet expected.
As Fausto surf approaches, Ocean Safety officials are especially concerned about the shoreline and tide pools below the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, which they say can be dangerous under normal conditions.
“The Makapuu tide pools may appear calm between sets, but large waves can arrive without warning and wash completely over the rocks,” Ocean Safety Chief Kurt Lager said in the news release. “Ten years ago, a father and daughter lost their lives at this location. We do not want another family to experience that kind of tragedy. With surf already elevated and additional swell expected from Hurricane Fausto, we are strongly asking the public not to visit the tide pools.”
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Officials recommend that residents and visitors not visit the site while surf is elevated or increasing. Ocean Safety offered the following tips:
>> Avoid the Makapuu tide pools and other exposed rocky shorelines.
>> Observe ocean conditions from a safe distance and never turn their back on the ocean.
>> Swim only at beaches protected by lifeguards and consult a lifeguard before entering the water.
>> Keep children and pets away from wave-washed rocks and shoreline ledges.
>> Follow all posted warning signs, closures and instructions from lifeguards or other public safety officials.
>> Call 911 immediately if someone is swept into the ocean. Do not enter dangerous water conditions without proper training and equipment.