Hawaii Expecting 50 Foot Waves

The notice that 50 foot waves are expected in Hawaii has had a double effect. It grabs the attention of surfers from around the world. It also alerts those who live there to take precautions.

There is a surf event that was scheduled for today, Jan. 22, 2014. The big wave contest is held on the island of Oahu. It is a one day event known as the “Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau Invitational.” This surf contest has only been held eight times in the past 29 years.

The awe-inspiring waves are what surfing dreams are made of. However, according to Glen Moncata, an event organizer, the wind conditions will be far too dangerous. The planners have until the end of February to find a day with just the perfect wave and wind balance.  The postponement is a huge disappointment, to say the least, but hope remains for the possibility of another date being announced. The weather and surf conditions are being constantly monitored.

This year the participants are set to include Greg Long of California. Greg won the last contest that was held back in 2009. Clyde Aikau who is the younger brother of Eddie Aikau will also take part. The famous surfer Kelly Slater will be participating as well. Kelly is an eleven time world champion surfer. Carlos Burle will also be included. He is best known for his performance last year while surfing a colossal wave in Portugal.

Eddie Aikau was a life guard in Oahu. He was renowned for his surfing skills as a big wave surfer in the 1960’s and 1970’s.  Eddie Aikau vanished in 1978 after leaving Hawaii in a canoe headed for Tahiti.The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau Invitational event was first held in 1984.

Residents of Hawaii are under an extreme weather alert because of the approach of the expected giant 50 foot waves  The warning is issued for the north and west shores of Oahu, Molokai and Kauai. It also covers the north shore of Maui. The Big Island is under alert for the west shore.

The west and north shores of Niihau and Kauai, and the north shore of Oahu, Maui and Molokai will see waves up to 50 feet. The west shore is expecting waves from 20 to 30 feet. On the Big Island, waves are predicted to reach up to 18 feet.
On Kauai, the north shore beaches have now been closed due to the expected height of the surf.

Volunteers in Honolulu have gone door to door in order to warn people on the west and north shores of the approaching danger. People living on the beach have been told to evacuate. The Red Cross has set up shelters for those who will be in need of a place to stay. Visitors are being cautioned about the dangers and are being advised as to how to remain safe.

Winds and rain are expected to slam into Hawaii on Wednesday night. The cold front will bring winds of up to 25 miles per hour. 50 foot waves are expected for the islands of Hawaii. Many Hawaii residents are watching in hopes that the weather forecast will turn in their favor and the sun will shine through. In the meantime, the safety of everyone on the islands is the first and foremost concern.

By Saki Kahala

Sources:

The Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau
Hawaii News
Transworld Surf