StarBulletin.com

Jellyfish influx closes Hanauma Bay


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POSTED: Wednesday, February 18, 2009

City officials closed Hanauma Bay today after a large number of box jellyfish was found on the beach and in near-shore waters, according to a news release.

“After discussing the situation with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department the decision was made to close the bay effective at 7 a.m.,” said Emergency Services Department spokeman Bryan Cheplic in a statement.

The situation will be reassessed tomorrow, he said.

The news release also said that more 650 jellyfish were found on Waikiki Beach today, but no stings were reported.

Jellyfish arrive on some Oahu beaches about 10 days after a full moon.

People who are allergic to the nasty sting the creatures deliver are advised to stay out of the water.

Anyone who gets stung should flush the affected area with copious amounts of white vinegar, officials said.