News - Stay Clear: Brown Water Alerts for Oahu's Waimanalo Coastline

The Hawaii Department of Health has taken precautionary action by issuing brown water advisories across significant portions of Oahu's Waimanalo coastline. This alert, which covers areas from Bellows Beach to Waimanalo Bay State Recreational Park, Waimanalo Beach Park, and Kaiona Beach Park, emphasizes the potential health risks associated with coastal waters appearing brown or murky, particularly after rains or storms. Although these advisories are specific to certain areas, health officials urge the public to exercise caution across all beaches that seem turbid. Such conditions often indicate the presence of heightened pollutant levels that naturally follow heavy rainfall. Even without an official advisory, the general guideline remains: 'If the water is brown, turn around.' For Waimanalo Beach Park, the advisory area extends northwards as far as Aloilioi Street. Experts recommend beachgoers abstain from entering these waters for a period of 48 to 72 hours post-rainfall, particularly when conditions are optimal such as receiving copious amounts of sunshine that could help water conditions return to normal. Additionally, health authorities highlight the importance of avoiding contact with freshwater streams and ponds, a measure aimed at curbing the risk of leptospirosis—a disease caused by the Leptospira bacteria. This bacterial infection can thrive in warm, still waters, posing a risk to individuals who swim or wade through these environments. To stay informed and receive real-time updates on water quality advisories, residents and visitors are encouraged to subscribe through the online portal at eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb.