Update: Bayfront Highway is still closed due to high surf

Update [4:43 p.m.]: Bayfront Highway is still closed due to high surf and Kamehameha Avenue is partially open.

Original post: Portions of both Bayfront Highway and Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo are closed this morning due to high surf.

Hawaii Police Department issued an email at 2:45 a.m. indicating the closure between Ponahawai and Pauahi Streets. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area using Kilauea Avenue.

Keokea in North Kohala and Coconut Island and Onekahakaha in Hilo also remain closed.

The Hawaiian Islands have been inundated with high winds and surf for the past couple of days. While winds on the Big Island have subsided, a high surf warning, meant to expire this morning, has been extended till 6 a.m. Sunday.

Along with the Big Island, high surf is anticipated for north-facing shores for Kaua‘i, Maui, Moloka‘i, Ni‘ihau and O‘ahu.

The public should expect strong breaking waves and powerful currents. According to the National Weather Service, there’s a very high tide early Saturday morning will bring the potential for wave run-up in areas that normally remain dry.

The public is advised to stay away from the shoreline along the affected coasts. Be prepared for road closures. Postpone entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf until the surf subsides.