Special Marine Warning Issued for Big Island Windward Waters Through 4:30 PM HST

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Big Island Windward Waters. This alert was issued following radar detection of a thunderstorm capable of producing hazardous conditions for mariners.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the Big Island Windward Waters. At 3:40 PM HST, the storm was located 8 nautical miles northwest of FAD Buoy HK, or approximately 10 nautical miles northeast of Ninole, moving northeast at a speed of 15 knots.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate safety precautions:

• Seek Safe Harbor: Move to a protected area or port immediately.
• Wear Life Jackets: Ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets.
• Stay Low: Stay low or go below deck to protect against wind and hail.
• Prepare for Impact: Be ready for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours.

Thunderstorms can produce sudden waterspouts that can easily overturn boats and create locally hazardous seas.

Expected Conditions

Based on radar observations, the following hazards are present:

• Waterspouts: Potential for sudden formation which can damage or overturn vessels.
• Wind: Wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Hail: Small hail is possible.
• Seas: Briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves are expected.

Timeline

The alert is effective immediately as of 3:41 PM HST and is currently set to expire at 4:30 PM HST on February 22, 2026.