Special Marine Warning Issued for Kauai and Oahu Waters Through Midday Wednesday
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for Kauai and Oahu coastal waters as strong thunderstorms capable of 40-knot wind gusts and small hail move through the region.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for several marine zones surrounding Kauai and Oahu. The alert is effective immediately and remains in place until 12:30 PM HST.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following geographic regions:
- Kauai Channel
- Kauai Leeward Waters
- Kauai Windward Waters
- Oahu Leeward Waters
- Oahu Windward Waters
Specific locations impacted include Makahuena Point, Kaena Point, and FAD Buoys CK, DK, CO, R, WK, and KK.
Expected Conditions
At 10:28 AM HST, radar indicated a line of strong thunderstorms moving northeast at 40 knots. These storms are expected to produce:
- Wind Gusts: Up to 40 knots
- Hail: Small hail
- Seas: Steep and fast-building seas
- Visibility: Blinding downpours
Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.
What You Should Do
Mariners and residents in the affected areas should take the following precautions:
- Prepare for gusty winds and rapidly deteriorating sea conditions.
- Stay low or go below deck to avoid hazards.
- Ensure all passengers and crew on board are wearing life jackets.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning was issued at 10:29 AM HST on March 12 and is currently scheduled to expire at 12:30 PM HST on March 12.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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