High surf advisory issued for north and west shores, waves expected to get bigger

A high surf advisory has been issued for the north and west shores of most of state.

According to the National Weather Service, surf is expected to build to heights of 20 to 25 feet along north facing shores and 15 to 20 feet along west facing shores. The swell is expected to peak Tuesday night into Wednesday.

Forecasters say the high surf advisory will most likely be changed to a high surf warning by noon Tuesday.

A high surf warning indicates that dangerous, battering waves will pound the shoreline, resulting in very dangerous swimming conditions and deadly rip currents.

According to Ocean Safety officials, three swimmers had to be rescued Tuesday morning after they ran into trouble at Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. HFD officials say the three men, who had gone swimming without fins or boards, were apparently caught in a rip current. Two off-duty Ocean Safety lifeguards spotted the men and brought the men to shore. The men did not require medical attention.

Inexperienced swimmers and surfers are advised to stay out of the water and beach-goers should be cautious of the area around them since large waves can roll onto the beach and shorelines.