Early glimmers of winter began to show on the North Shore of Oahu over the weekend, as high surf warnings were issued, and lifeguards had their hands full.
On Sunday, there were multiple rescues and near-drownings on the famed Seven Mile Miracle. The National Weather Service issued a warning for north and west-facing beaches, with wave faces forecasted to be in the 12-to-16-foot range.
At Shark’s Cove, the popular tourist swimming hole surrounded by a shelter of rocks, a trio of individuals were injured when they were hit by a large wave and swept across the shelf. See footage from the moment of impact below:
As reported by Instagram news source HHHNewz:
“Around five hours ago at Shark’s Cove, three people were swept and badly injured after getting caught in powerful surf. Bystanders immediately alerted lifeguards and assisted until EMS arrived. All three survived but were taken for medical care.”
Bystanders saw the incident happen, and they alerted lifeguards. Soon, emergency services arrived on the scene to assist the “badly injured.”
According to Hawaii News Now, the three individuals, “suffered multiple serious abrasions and lacerations when they were swept along sharp rocks by dangerous surf. EMS said a 27-year-old man and a 24-year-old man were taken to the hospital in serious condition, while a 21-year-old man declined transport.”
Earlier in the day, not far from Shark’s Cove, another rescue took place when an elderly couple were swept off the sand at Ke Iki Beach, and sucked out to sea. The 76-year-old male and a 69-year-old female were merely dipping their toes in the water, but a wave caught them. Good Samaritans assisted in the rescue, along with local lifeguards. As for the couple, they were transferred to the hospital in serious condition.
Just a couple reminders to stay safe on the North Shore this winter season, and everywhere else for that matter. As the Hungry Hungry Hawaiian advises:
“Never underestimate the ocean — even calm-looking waters can turn dangerous fast. Spread awareness, stay cautious, and always watch the surf conditions before heading out.”
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