Hawaii is bracing for one of the largest northwest swells of the winter season, with forecasts predicting wave heights could surpass High Surf Warnings as early as Tuesday, December 17. This incoming swell is set to create some of the biggest waves seen on the islands this year, generating excitement among surfers ahead of the Christmas holidays.
The swell, originating from a series of storms in the North Pacific, is expected to steadily build through the middle of December before reaching its peak later in the week. By Friday, December 20, wave heights could reach an impressive 20 to 30 feet, with conditions favoring big-wave surfers on the northern shores of the Hawaiian Islands. While many popular spots may be washed out by the large surf, deepwater locations such as Waimea Bay, Oahu’s outer reefs, and Jaws on Maui are expected to offer prime conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, the swell will start filling in on Tuesday and will intensify into Wednesday, producing waves well above the High Surf Advisory threshold. By Thursday, the surf is predicted to exceed High Surf Warning levels, continuing into the weekend. “This is the first of several long-period northwest swells to hit the islands,” the service reports, adding that the swell will likely peak on Friday, December 20.
Surfline forecaster Chris Borg describes the coming swell as a major event. “We’re expecting the rest of December to close out with some serious surf,” he said. “It’s going to be one for the books.”
With such a potent swell forecast, many are wondering if the famed Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational will run, or if the action will shift to Maui’s Jaws. While the exact locations are still uncertain, one thing is clear: Hawaii’s big-wave surfers are preparing for an unforgettable holiday swell. Surfers are already checking their gear and making final preparations, as this Christmas swell promises to be a wild ride, with conditions that are expected to be more challenging than festive.
As the surf builds, Hawaii’s iconic northern shores are set for an exhilarating and high-risk spectacle — one that could make this holiday season one to remember for surf enthusiasts around the world.
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