Special Marine Warning Issued for Kauai and Oahu Waters as Severe Thunderstorms Approach

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for several marine zones around Kauai and Oahu. The alert was issued at 3:50 AM HST on March 12, 2026, following radar detection of severe weather in the area.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

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

Specific locations impacted include Makahuena Point, FAD Buoy CK, and FAD Buoy Z.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas should take immediate precautions:

• Prepare for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours.
• Stay low or go below deck to avoid hazards.
• Ensure all individuals on board are wearing life jackets.
• Avoid the warning area if possible until conditions improve.

Expected Conditions

At 3:49 AM HST, radar indicated severe thunderstorms capable of producing waterspouts. These storms were located along a line extending from 32 nautical miles south of FAD Buoy CK to 39 nautical miles southeast of the Southern Tip of Niihau, moving northeast at 35 knots.

Primary Hazards:

• Waterspouts: Capable of easily overturning boats and creating locally hazardous seas.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Sea Conditions: Small craft could be damaged by briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately and is currently scheduled to expire at 5:45 AM HST on March 12, 2026.