Weather advisory map via National Weather Service/NOAA

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a high surf advisory for south facing shores of all islands until 6 p.m. Friday (Sept 18).

A strong low pressure system near New Zealand last week generated open ocean swells that will arrive in Hawaiian waters through Friday.

Surf along south facing shores is forecast to be in the 6-8 foot range. The surf is building Thursday night and will peak on Friday.

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.