Coastal Operations Face Immediate Disruption as Warning-Level Surf Arrives
Warning-level surf impacting north, south, and west-facing shores statewide from January 13th through at least mid-week mandates immediate review and potential modification of operational plans for businesses reliant on ocean access and coastal environments.
The Change
Beginning January 13th, Hawaii is experiencing back-to-back extra-large swells targeting predominantly north and west-facing shores. These conditions are expected to persist through Tuesday, with another significant swell arriving mid-week. The National Weather Service has issued surf advisories and warnings, indicating hazardous conditions that are dangerous to life and property. While initial reports focus on the north and west, residents and businesses should also monitor south-facing shores, as conditions can evolve rapidly and impact a broader range of coastal activities.
National Weather Service Honolulu has provided specific details on expected wave heights and conditions.
Who's Affected
Tourism Operators
Businesses ranging from hotels and vacation rentals to surf schools and boat tour operators will face direct impacts. High surf warnings often lead to the cancellation of ocean-based activities such as snorkeling tours, boat excursions, and beginner surf lessons due to safety concerns. Hotels in beachfront locations may experience increased guest complaints or requests for room changes if noise or beach access is significantly impacted. While larger swells can attract professional surfers, they deter the average tourist, potentially lowering engagement with coastal attractions. The direct revenue loss from cancelled tours and activities, coupled with increased operational costs for ensuring guest safety and managing liability, presents a significant short-term challenge.
Small Business Operators
Small businesses, particularly those operating in coastal zones or relying on beach traffic, will feel the impact. Restaurants and retail shops in areas accustomed to high foot traffic from beachgoers may see a noticeable decline in customers. For businesses directly involved in maritime services—such as boat repair, charter fishing, or delivery services operating from smaller harbors—operations may be entirely suspended due to unsafe conditions, leading to immediate revenue loss. Increased insurance premiums or claims related to storm surge or property damage in vulnerable areas could also be a consequence for businesses with physical coastal infrastructure.
Second-Order Effects
- High surf advisories → Mandatory closures of certain beaches and water activities → Reduced visitor spending on local tours and excursions → Lower revenue for tourism-dependent small businesses (restaurants, retail) in affected coastal areas.
- Increased demand for indoor activities and alternative entertainment → Potential boost for museums, indoor shopping centers, and dining outside immediate coastal zones.
- Temporary halt of maritime transport and fishing operations → Short-term disruption in local seafood supply chains if extended → Potential minor increase in prices for available local catches.
What to Do
Tourism Operators
Act Now: Immediate communication and operational adjustments are critical.
- Review and Update Safety Protocols: Ensure all staff are briefed on enhanced safety procedures, signage, and emergency contact information. Communicate these clearly to guests.
- Customer Communication: Proactively inform guests booked for ocean activities about potential cancellations or modifications. Offer alternative activities or reschedule where possible. This proactive communication manages expectations and can mitigate negative reviews.
- Monitor Weather Updates: Continuously check National Weather Service Honolulu for the latest surf forecasts and advisories, which may extend or change the affected areas and timelines.
- Assess Insurance and Liability: Review your insurance policies for coverage related to weather-induced operational disruptions or damage. Document all communications and decision-making related to weather impacts for liability purposes.
- Consider Indoor Alternatives: If feasible, pivot marketing to promote indoor attractions or services that are unaffected by the surf conditions.
Small Business Operators
Act Now: Assess immediate operational impacts and prepare for potential disruptions.
- Coastal Property Assessment: If your business is located in a vulnerable coastal area, assess your property for flood or storm surge risks. Secure outdoor furnishings and any sensitive equipment.
- Staffing Adjustments: Communicate with staff regarding potential changes in operating hours or shifts due to reduced customer traffic or direct operational halts. Ensure adequate staffing for any safety-related duties.
- Supply Chain Check: If reliant on maritime deliveries or local seafood, check with your suppliers regarding potential disruptions and secure inventory if possible and necessary.
- Customer Communication: For businesses directly impacted (e.g., charter services), inform clients of cancellations or delays. For others, consider informing customers of any potential for reduced foot traffic or amended operating hours via social media and direct messaging.
- Monitor Local Advisories: Stay informed through local news and official channels like KHON2 Local News regarding any localized emergency directives or warnings that may affect access to your business location.
