High Surf, Dangerous Marine Conditions, and Gusty Winds Expected Across the Hawaiian Islands
As of July 26, 2026, Hurricane Fausto is located approximately 740 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, and continues moving westward across the Pacific. While the hurricane is forecast to weaken before reaching the islands, Hawaii is expected to experience hazardous marine conditions, dangerous surf, gusty winds, and periods of heavy rain as the system passes nearby. Forecast guidance currently keeps the center of the storm north of the islands, but residents should continue monitoring updates because even small track changes could increase local impacts.
Tropical Storm Warning for Hawaiian Offshore Waters
A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for portions of Hawaiian Offshore Waters, where tropical-storm-force winds, rough seas, and hazardous boating conditions are expected.
Mariners should avoid unnecessary travel as rapidly changing weather conditions may produce:
- Tropical storm-force wind gusts
- Large, dangerous waves
- Reduced visibility in heavy rain
- Hazardous navigation conditions
Storm Warning for Hawaiian Offshore Waters
A Storm Warning remains in effect across portions of Hawaiian offshore waters, where stronger winds and extremely rough seas are expected outside the main Hawaiian Islands.
Conditions offshore may become life-threatening for:
- Commercial fishing vessels
- Recreational boaters
- Inter-island marine traffic
Small Craft Advisory in Effect
A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for:
- Maalaea Bay
- Pailolo Channel
- Alenuihaha Channel
- Big Island Leeward Waters
- Big Island Southeast Waters
Strong winds and rough seas will make boating dangerous, especially for smaller vessels. Mariners are urged to remain in port if possible until conditions improve.
High Surf Advisory for East-Facing Shores
A High Surf Advisory is in effect for east-facing shores of all Hawaiian Islands as swells generated by Hurricane Fausto continue to build.
Potential hazards include:
- Powerful breaking waves
- Dangerous rip currents
- Beach erosion
- Coastal overwash in vulnerable areas
- Hazardous conditions for swimmers and surfers
Surf is expected to continue increasing as Fausto approaches the Central Pacific. Forecasters note that some east-facing shores could experience even larger waves if the storm tracks closer than currently forecast.
Potential Impacts Hurricane Fausto May Have on Hawaii
Although Hurricane Fausto is expected to weaken into a tropical storm before reaching the vicinity of Hawaii, residents should still prepare for several possible impacts.
Expected impacts include:
- Increasing easterly winds with gusts near 40 mph in some locations
- Dangerous surf along east-facing coastlines
- Hazardous rip currents
- Heavy showers capable of localized flooding
- Dangerous marine conditions across surrounding waters
- Difficult travel for small boats and inter-island vessels
The greatest impacts are currently expected to occur across coastal areas and surrounding waters rather than from a direct landfall. However, forecasters emphasize that forecast adjustments remain possible as the storm approaches.
Stay Prepared
Residents and visitors should:
- Continue monitoring forecasts from local emergency officials.
- Avoid entering rough ocean waters.
- Stay away from jetties, rocks, and exposed coastlines.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects.
- Prepare emergency supplies in case weather conditions worsen.
- Boaters should remain in safe harbor until advisories expire.
Preparation now can help reduce the risks associated with rapidly changing tropical weather.
Stay with Radar Watch HQ for the latest hurricane updates, marine warnings, high surf advisories, and severe weather coverage across Hawaii and the Pacific. Monitor official forecasts and be prepared to act if conditions change.
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🌊 1. U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jacket
A properly fitted life jacket is the most important piece of safety equipment for every passenger onboard.
Best for: Recreational boaters, anglers, kayakers, and paddleboarders.
⚓ 2. Marine Emergency Radio (NOAA Weather Radio)
Receive real-time NOAA Weather Radio alerts, marine forecasts, and emergency warnings—even when cell service is unavailable.
Best for: Offshore and coastal boating.
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A bright waterproof flashlight is essential for emergencies, low visibility, nighttime navigation, and signaling for help.
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🧰 4. Marine First Aid Kit
A waterproof first aid kit stocked with bandages, antiseptic, medications, and emergency supplies for injuries on the water.
Best for: Every vessel, regardless of size.
🧭 5. Waterproof Dry Bag
Protect phones, wallets, charts, keys, electronics, and emergency supplies from water damage during storms or rough seas.
Best for: Boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and beachgoers.
🛒 Radar Watch HQ Marine Safety Picks
Prepare before you head out on the water. Our recommended marine safety essentials can help keep you and your crew safe during changing weather conditions.
