Special Marine Warning Issued for Maui County Waters and Alenuihaha Channel
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for Maui County Leeward Waters, Maalaea Bay, and the Alenuihaha Channel due to potential waterspouts and high winds.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Honolulu HI has issued a Special Marine Warning (Alert Code: MAW) for several maritime regions. The alert is effective immediately following radar detection of hazardous conditions.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following geographic regions:
- Alenuihaha Channel
- Maalaea Bay
- Maui County Leeward Waters
Specific locations impacted include Manele Harbor, Lahaina Harbor, Molokini, and FAD Buoys HS, MC, LA, JJ, and GG.
Expected Conditions
At 8:47 AM HST, radar indicated showers capable of producing waterspouts along a line extending from near Ualapue to 30 nm southwest of FAD Buoy JJ. This system is moving east at 10 knots.
Primary hazards include:
- Waterspouts: Capable of creating locally hazardous seas.
- Wind: Gusts of 34 knots or greater.
- Impact: Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves.
What You Should Do
Mariners and residents in the warning area should prepare for gusty winds, steep and fast-building seas, and blinding downpours. The National Weather Service advises those on the water to stay low or go below deck and ensure all persons on board are wearing life jackets. Avoid these waters until the threat has passed.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning is effective from 8:50 AM HST on March 11, 2026, and is currently scheduled to expire at 10:45 AM HST on March 11, 2026.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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