Weather advisory map via National Weather Service/NOAA

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a high surf advisory for the north facing shores of Hawaii Island until 6 p.m. this evening.

Surf along the north and east shores of Hawaii Island is forecast to be in the 10-15 foot range. The surf will gradually diminish through the day.

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.

A small craft advisory is in effect until 6 a.m. Friday (Dec 4) for Maalaea Bay, the Pailolo and Alenuihaha Channels, leeward and southeast waters of Hawaii Island.