Special Marine Warning Issued for Kauai and Oahu Waters Through Early Sunday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Special Marine Warning for several marine zones surrounding Kauai and Oahu. The alert was issued at 1:10 AM HST on March 15, 2026, following radar detection of a strong thunderstorm moving through the region.

Affected Areas

The warning encompasses the following geographic marine regions:

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

Specific locations expected to be impacted include Nawiliwili Harbor, Kilauea Lighthouse, the southern tip of Niihau, Kikiaola Harbor, Kukuiula Harbor, and FAD Buoys CK, DK, and EK.

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 until conditions improve.

Expected Conditions

At 1:10 AM HST, a strong thunderstorm was located approximately 17 nautical miles southwest of Kekaha, moving northeast at 40 knots. The primary hazard identified is wind gusts of 34 knots or greater. These conditions are expected to create suddenly higher waves and could potentially damage small craft.

Timeline

The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately as of 1:10 AM HST and is scheduled to remain in effect until 3:15 AM HST on Sunday, March 15, 2026.