Special Marine Warning Issued for Kauai Channel and Oahu Windward Waters Through Wednesday Evening

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning for the Kauai Channel and Oahu Windward Waters. This alert is in effect until 7:30 PM HST on March 11, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Kauai Channel
• Oahu Windward Waters

Specific locations impacted include Kaena Point, FAD Buoy CO, and FAD Buoy II.

Expected Conditions

At 5:33 PM HST, radar indicated showers capable of producing waterspouts along a line extending from 19 nautical miles northwest of FAD Buoy CO to 35 nautical miles southeast of FAD Buoy CK. This line is moving northeast at 25 knots.

Primary hazards include:

• Waterspouts: Potential for waterspouts to form and create locally hazardous seas.
• Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Waves: Suddenly higher waves and steep, fast-building seas.
• Visibility: Blinding downpours are possible.

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected areas should take the following precautions immediately:

• Prepare for Hazards: Be ready for gusty winds, steep seas, and reduced visibility.
• Safety Gear: Ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets.
• Seek Shelter: Stay low or go below deck to avoid injury from sudden wind or wave action.
• Avoidance: Small craft should avoid the area as they could be damaged by high winds and waves.

Timeline

• Issued: March 11, 2026, at 5:34 PM HST
• Effective: Immediately
• Expires: March 11, 2026, at 7:30 PM HST