Audio from Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense, issued February 17, 2019.
(BIVN) – Two popular beaches along the east-shore of Hawaiʻi Island are closed today, as a High Surf Warning continues.
Issac Hale Beach Park has been closed until further notice due to dangerous surf conditions at Pohoʻiki, and the beach at Punaluʻu in Kaʻū has also been closed due to dangerous surf conditions.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense says the rest of the Punaluʻu Beach Park will close today at 4 p.m. until further notice.
All other County beach parks are open, officials say, but may close without notice.
Hilo Bayfront Highway also remains closed.
The National Weather Service forecast surf heights would be 12 to 18 feet with locally higher sets along north and east facing shores of the Big Island today, then gradually subside.
“Beachgoers, Swimmers, and Surfers should heed the instructions of Ocean Safety Personnel,” civil defense said. “Do not enter the water as dangerous currents make entering the water hazardous.”
