Small Craft Advisory Remains in Effect Across Hawaii Waters
The National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory for several marine zones surrounding Maui County and the Big Island as strong trade winds continue to create hazardous boating conditions.
The advisory includes:
- Maalaea Bay
- Pailolo Channel
- Alenuihaha Channel
- Big Island Leeward Waters
- Big Island Southeast Waters
The advisory is in effect until 6:00 PM HST Saturday, with hazardous conditions expected to continue through the period. (Maui Now)
Marine Conditions
Persistent high pressure north of the Hawaiian Islands is generating moderate to strong trade winds across the region.
Forecast conditions include:
- Sustained east to northeast winds of 20 to 25 knots, with localized stronger gusts.
- Seas generally ranging from 3 to 6 feet, with rough conditions in the windier channels and near South Point.
- Choppy waters and reduced maneuverability for smaller vessels.
- Scattered showers across portions of the affected marine zones. (National Data Buoy Center)
Areas of Greatest Concern
The strongest conditions are expected in:
- Maalaea Bay, where north winds may reach 25 knots.
- Pailolo Channel, known for accelerated trade winds between Maui and Molokai.
- Alenuihaha Channel, one of Hawaii’s most challenging marine passages due to funneling winds.
- Big Island Leeward Waters, particularly near South Point where winds may approach 25 knots.
- Big Island Southeast Waters, where strong easterly winds and elevated seas will create hazardous boating conditions. (National Data Buoy Center)
Safety Tips for Boaters
Anyone planning to head onto the water should use extreme caution.
Safety recommendations include:
- Postpone trips in small boats whenever possible.
- Wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Secure loose gear before departing.
- Check the latest marine forecast before leaving port.
- Maintain communication equipment and emergency signaling devices onboard.
- Inform someone on shore of your travel plans and expected return time.
Conditions can deteriorate quickly in Hawaii’s windier channels, especially during periods of strong trade winds.
Looking Ahead
Trade winds are expected to remain moderate to locally strong into the weekend as high pressure stays anchored north of the islands. Mariners should anticipate continued hazardous conditions in the typically windier waters around Maui County and the Big Island, and additional Small Craft Advisories may be necessary if winds remain elevated. (Big Island Now)
Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Items for Severe Marine Alerts & Hazardous Boating Conditions
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When a Small Craft Advisory, Gale Warning, or other severe marine alert is issued, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Here are Radar Watch HQ’s Top 5 marine safety essentials every boater should have before heading onto the water.
1. U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jacket (PFD)
A properly fitted personal flotation device is the most important piece of safety equipment on any vessel. Everyone onboard should have immediate access to a wearable life jacket.
Why it’s essential:
- Keeps you afloat if you fall overboard.
- Increases survival during rough seas.
- Required by law on most recreational boats.
2. Floating Waterproof Marine VHF Radio
Cell phone service can become unreliable offshore. A floating VHF marine radio provides direct communication with the U.S. Coast Guard and nearby vessels during emergencies.
Why it’s essential:
- Emergency distress communications.
- Weather updates while underway.
- Reliable communication beyond cellular coverage.
3. Emergency Marine Survival Kit
A waterproof emergency kit should include:
- First aid supplies
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Emergency whistle
- Signal mirror
- Waterproof matches
- Emergency blanket
- Energy bars and drinking water
Why it’s essential:
- Helps you stay prepared if stranded or delayed.
- Provides critical survival equipment during emergencies.
4. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or EPIRB
A Personal Locator Beacon or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon can instantly alert search and rescue agencies with your GPS location.
Why it’s essential:
- Sends your exact location during emergencies.
- Greatly improves rescue response time.
- Designed specifically for marine emergencies.
Protect important items from water damage by storing them in a heavy-duty dry bag.
Ideal contents include:
- Identification
- Boat registration
- Phone
- Portable charger
- Medications
- Extra clothing
- Emergency documents
Why it’s essential:
- Keeps critical gear dry during heavy rain, rough seas, or accidental immersion.
- Makes emergency supplies easy to grab quickly.
Radar Watch HQ Marine Safety Reminder
Small Craft Advisories are issued because weather and sea conditions can become dangerous for smaller vessels. Even experienced boaters should carefully evaluate whether conditions are safe before departing. If severe marine weather is expected, delaying your trip is often the safest decision.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay safe. Radar Watch HQ will continue monitoring marine weather conditions across U.S. coastal waters and provide updates as new advisories are issued.
