Special Marine Warning Issued for Alenuihaha Channel Through 1:30 PM HST

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Alenuihaha Channel. This alert is effective immediately following the detection of a severe thunderstorm capable of producing hazardous marine conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning primarily affects the Alenuihaha Channel. Specific locations impacted by this storm include:

• FAD Buoy M
• FAD Buoy HS
• FAD Buoy JJ
• FAD Buoy GG
• FAD Buoy Nl
• Upolu Point

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected area should take the following precautions immediately:

• Seek Safe Harbor: Move to a protected area or harbor immediately.
• Safety Gear: Ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets.
• Stay Below Deck: Frequent lightning is occurring with this storm; stay below deck if possible to avoid strikes.
• Prepare for Hazards: Be ready for sudden waterspouts, which can easily overturn boats and create localized hazardous seas.

Expected Conditions

Radar indicated a severe thunderstorm located approximately 36 nm southwest of FAD Buoy JJ (or 40 nm south of Honokanaia), moving northeast at 20 knots. Expected hazards include:

• Waterspouts: Capable of overturning vessels.
• Wind: Gusts up to 40 knots.
• Seas: Steep and fast-building seas.
• Visibility: Blinding downpours reducing visibility significantly.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 11:26 AM HST on March 13, 2026. It is currently scheduled to expire at 1:30 PM HST on the same day.