A new northwest swell triggered a high wave alert on the back of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and Molokai facing north and west and on Maui’s back facing north this afternoon, with a second swell just behind, according to the National Meteorological Service.
Meteorologists said they expected waves of up to 7 to 35 feet today on the north coast and 7 to 26 feet on the west coast. The waves on the south and east coasts range from just 1 to 4 feet, the service said.
As the swell descends through the island chain, a surfing warning may be issued for the west coast of the island of Hawaii this afternoon.
A smaller northwestern swell will continue to bring big waves along the exposed coasts facing north and west on Sunday, according to the Weather Service. The waves will subside on Monday with the passage of the two swells, but another may reach the islands and produce consultative-level surfing in the middle of next week.
Officials warn that ocean water occasionally strikes parts of beaches, significant coast breaks and dangerous currents.
A small boat warning remains in effect for all waters in Hawaii until 6 pm today.
Meanwhile, rainfall will increase on the island of Hawaii and eastern Maui today, spreading to the rest of the island chain on Sunday afternoon, meteorologists said. Humidity will persist across the state on Monday, with a decrease in rainfall likely on Tuesday.
Click here to see our full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak. Send your coronavirus news tip.