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Humongous waves forecast for isles


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POSTED: Tuesday, January 13, 2009

HANALEI, Kauai » Honolulu and Kauai lifeguards are preparing for the possibility of a giant, long-lasting swell expected to arrive tomorrow, officials said yesterday.

               

     

 

Play it safe

        With the upcoming swell on the way, lifeguards remind beachgoers to:
       

» Consult with a lifeguard regarding ocean conditions before entering the water.

       

» Heed all warning signs.

       

» Never swim alone.

       

» Know your limits.

       

A high-surf warning could be in place as early as tomorrow morning for surf as big as 25 feet, according to National Weather Service forecasters.

The storm, currently near the Aleutian Islands, has been in the Hawaii swell window for days, and the giant surf is not expected to subside until Saturday.

However, another cold front is also expected to hit Kauai Thursday night, moving south of the Big Island by Saturday. There is a chance of locally heavy rain and gusty winds, especially Friday, according to Ian Morrison, a National Weather Service forecaster.

  “;It will be a large, messy swell with the high winds,”; Morrison added. 

Lifeguards are not taking chances, reminding beachgoers that swells can reach far up the beach during big surf.

“;We are advising people to go to the South Shore,”; said Kauai Water Safety Supervisor Kalani Vierra. “;We'll make sure the beaches are staffed and signs are posted.”;

 

;[Preview] Weather Report
;[Preview]
 

Sunny, Cool Morning With Few Clouds, Showers After Noon

Watch ]

 

  On Oahu, lifeguards along the North Shore are also preparing for the swell.

“;There is the possibility that this may be the biggest swell of the winter, so we are reminding everyone to take the necessary safety precautions,”; said Bryan Cheplic, Emergency Services Department public information officer. “;City lifeguards ask for the public's cooperation to help maintain the high level of safety and care provided to all beachgoers.”;