Special Marine Warning Issued for Kauai Northwest and Leeward Waters Through Wednesday Evening

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Special Marine Warning for the waters surrounding Kauai. This alert is effective immediately and remains in place until 7:30 PM HST on March 11, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the following geographic regions:

• Kauai Northwest Waters
• Kauai Leeward Waters

Impacted locations include Lehua Rock, the Southern Tip of Niihau, and Nohili Point.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to prepare for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours. The National Weather Service recommends that those on the water stay low or go below deck, and ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets. Boaters should avoid the area if possible until conditions improve.

Expected Conditions

At 5:26 PM HST, radar indicated a line of showers capable of producing waterspouts. This line extended from 15 nautical miles west of Lehua Rock to 67 nautical miles west of Polihale.

• Hazards: Waterspouts and wind gusts of 34 knots or greater.
• Impacts: Waterspouts can create locally hazardous seas. Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.

Timeline

The alert was issued at 5:27 PM HST and is scheduled to expire at 7:30 PM HST. As of the latest report, the storm system is moving northeast at 20 knots.