"We see warmer than normal temperatures down toward the equator and Eastern Pacific, and a more active storm track along the North Pacific meaning more storms, more wind, and more northwest swells impacting portions of the state," says National Weather Service’s Mike Cantin.
Which is why they have teamed up with the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Division, which began preparations in June for a busy season. They’ve added a fifth mobile response team, equipped with personal watercrafts for offshore rescues, and will staff their lifeguard stands with additional crew.
But their biggest concern is ensuring that beachgoers are aware of the ocean conditions and hazards.
"We try to help them understand the conditions or maybe direct them to an area that might be more appropriate for their skill level," says Operations Chief of the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Jim Howe.
There are twenty five miles along Oahu’s North Shore from Kaena Point to Kahuku, but it’s along a seven mile stretch where most of the action occurs.
Ocean Safety Lifeguards are well prepared. They’re certified in CPR and receive special medical training. Year-round rescues prepare them for the surf season.
But regardless of their expertise, twenty-five foot waves still keep them humble.
"You just pray and hold on and hope your training comes in handy," says rescue craft operator Kirk Ziegler.
Ocean Safety has stepped up their awareness plans by providing information to the airlines, in hotels and in guidebooks.
But it’s not just our visitors who need to be aware.
"Our visitors, our residents, they all are rescued, so everybody really does have to take a good assessment of their experience, their ability, their fitness level before they get into the surf up here," says Howe.
For up-to-date information on ocean conditions, click here.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
