The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a High Surf Warning for West facing shores of the Big Island until 6 a.m. Friday (Jan 24).

Surf is forecast to be in the 12-18 foot range.

Coastal areas can expect strong breaking waves, shore breaks and strong longshore and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should heed the advice given by ocean safety officials and be careful. Know your limits and when in doubt, don’t go out.

Boaters should expect recreational surfers and bodyboarders using harbor channels to access surfing areas.