USCG Warns Mariners of Severe Weather in Hawai’i, Pacific Islands

USCG
USCG
Image via USCG.

Officials at U.S. Coast Guard District 14 are asking mariners to stay safe amid heavy rains in the Pacific Islands.

The National Weather Service says it’s concerned that parts of Hawai’i could experience “catastrophic flooding” from the severe rainfall, which is expected to last at least through Tuesday.

A high surf advisory has been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for the north shore of all Hawaiian islands, as well as a state-wide wind advisory, “a small craft advisory for all Maui County and Big Island waters, and a gale warning for all Kauai and Oahu waters including the Kaiwi Channel,” according to the USCG.

“It is especially important to take all necessary precautions during these current weather conditions that are expected to impact the Hawaiian Islands,” the USCG said in a statement, adding that Coast Guard members have had to respond to four distressed vessels in distress over the weekend.

Coast Guard officials are asking mariners and the public to be mindful of marine and weather advisories, check mooring lines to make sure boats are secure, check that paddle craft are securely in place, stay out of the water and off rocks and jetties in bad weather.

Mariners should have a float plan and give it to family and friends before heading out, including a vessel description, the number of guests on the boat, destination and the expected time of return. Also, don’t forget to wear a life jacket when on the water and use VHF-FM channel 16 to alert first-responders in case of an emergency.

By Karen Robes Meeks