HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A high surf warning remains in effect as a powerful south swell brings dangerous waves to south-facing shores across the state.

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The warning is in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday, and the National Weather Service said surf could reach 10 to 15 feet with significant wave run-up expected during afternoon high tides.

A coastal flood statement remains in effect through Tuesday afternoon as forecasters said the combination of the south-southwest swell and king tides could cause nuisance coastal flooding.

Large surf could stick around for some time with another pulse potentially arriving by late Wednesday, forecasters said.

Rescues, preventative actions reported on Oahu

Honolulu’s Ocean Safety Department reported 8,455 preventative actions and 103 rescues Monday at beaches along Oʻahu’s south and west shores.

Officials said large waves and strong currents can arrive with little warning because the swell can produce long lulls between sets.

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Whitewash was visible Monday morning along the coast from Maunalua Bay to Diamond Head to Waikīkī and Ala Moana. Several regular beachgoers said they were surprised by how quickly the surf picked up.

“It definitely seemed a little bigger than normal,” said Honolulu resident Anna Kalabukhova. “There was a lot of current and the waves were kind of big on the outside.”

Surfer Trent Carter said he was grateful for the chance to enjoy the ocean. “It’s just amazing here,” he said. “There’s so much opportunity to surf and enjoy the ocean.”

Ocean Safety urged the public to check with lifeguards before entering the water, heed posted warnings and advisories and choose guarded beaches whenever possible.

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