The National Weather Service has extended its coastal flooding statement for all islands through Wednesday afternoon, warning of minor high tide flooding in low-lying areas. The coastal flooding statement is tied to peak monthly high tides and water levels running higher than predicted.
Forecasters in Honolulu said the combination of elevated astronomical tides and above-normal sea levels could push water into vulnerable shorelines during afternoon high tides early this week. On Hawaiʻi Island, impacts may include low-lying coastal roads, docks, boat ramps and other shoreline infrastructure through Wednesday, Aug. 12.
Coastal flooding statement details
An earlier statement was in effect from noon Aug. 9 through the afternoon of Aug. 11 for southern, southeastern, eastern and northern shorelines of the Big Island. Officials now expect isolated minor flooding around the daily peak tides through at least Tuesday, with spotty issues still possible Wednesday where water levels run highest.
Potential impacts include saltwater reaching normally dry beaches, minor coastal erosion and brief overwash near boat ramps. Residents are urged not to drive through flooded roadways.
Property owners in low-lying shoreline areas or near waterways should consider moving vehicles, electronics and other valuables to higher ground. For additional context on recent conditions, see related coverage on minor coastal flooding possible during high tides statewide.
Boaters should check vessels frequently to ensure mooring lines are not overly tight and watch for overwash at ramps during high tide. Recreational watercraft stored on beaches, including canoes, should be secured or moved.
Tides are forecast to ease by Aug. 12. Even so, minor coastal flooding could still occur in a few spots where water levels remain elevated.
Community members can share photos of coastal flooding events with the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant Hawaiʻi and Pacific Islands King Tides Project at PacificIslandsKingTides.org.
