Special Marine Warning Issued for Big Island Waters; Waterspouts and 34-Knot Gusts Possible

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Special Marine Warning for the maritime regions surrounding the Big Island. The alert was issued at 6:00 AM HST on March 15, 2026, after radar indicated a severe thunderstorm capable of producing waterspouts.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Big Island Leeward Waters
• Big Island Southeast Waters
• Big Island Windward Waters

Specific locations expected to be impacted include South Point, Cape Kumukahi, and FAD Buoys SS, A, KH, and RN.

What You Should Do

Mariners and individuals in the affected areas should take immediate safety precautions:

• Prepare for Hazards: Be ready for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours.
• Seek Shelter: Stay low or go below deck to remain safe during the storm.
• Safety Equipment: Ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets.
• Avoidance: Waterspouts can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas; small craft should exercise extreme caution as they could be damaged by sudden high winds and waves.

Expected Conditions

At 5:58 AM HST, a severe thunderstorm was located near South Point, or approximately 12 nautical miles south of Discovery Harbour. The system is moving northeast at 30 knots.

• Hazards: Potential for waterspouts and wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Source: Radar indicated.
• Impact: Risk of overturned vessels and suddenly higher waves.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately as of 6:00 AM HST and is currently scheduled to expire at 8:00 AM HST on March 15, 2026.