Special Marine Warning for Kauai and Oahu Waters: Waterspouts and 40-Knot Gusts Possible

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for several Hawaiian water zones. The alert was issued at 4:42 AM HST following radar detection of severe thunderstorms capable of producing hazardous conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following maritime regions:

• Kauai Channel
• Kauai Leeward Waters
• Kauai Windward Waters
• Oahu Leeward Waters
• Oahu Windward Waters

Specific locations impacted include Kahuku Point, Kilauea Lighthouse, Kikiaola Harbor, Haleiwa Harbor, and FAD Buoys CK, DK, J, and CO.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas should prepare for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours. The National Weather Service recommends that those on the water stay low or go below deck. It is essential that all individuals on board wear life jackets to ensure safety during these conditions.

Expected Conditions

The primary hazards include waterspouts and wind gusts reaching up to 40 knots. According to radar data, waterspouts can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas, while high winds and sudden waves may damage small craft. At 4:41 AM HST, severe thunderstorms were located approximately 30 nm southeast of Poipu (or 23 nm southeast of FAD Buoy CK), moving northeast at 20 knots.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately as of 4:42 AM HST and is scheduled to remain in effect until 6:45 AM HST on March 12, 2026.