HomeMy WebLinkAboutNR020419HanaleiBayclosedtoswimmingduetoapparentsharkbiteTHE COUNTY OF KAUA'I
DEREK S. K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
mqa MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
C OF
News Release
For Immediate Release: February 4, 2019
KAUA`I FIRE DEPARTMENT
KILIPAKI VAUGHAN, DEPUTY CHIEF
Tel (808) 241-4980
Fax (808) 241-6508
Hanalei Bay closed to swimming due to apparent shark bite
HANALEI — Ocean Safety officials have closed Hanalei Bay to swimming until further
notice due to an apparent shark bite that occurred shortly before 1:45 p.m. Monday.
A male resident had been surfing in waters off Hanalei at a spot commonly known as
"the bowl," when he was bit by a large Tiger shark.
The man sustained multiple lacerations to his leg and was transported by medics to
Wilcox Hospital.
Lifeguards have posted "Shark Sighted" and "No Swimming" signs along Hanalei Bay
and are roving the shoreline to warn surfers and beachgoers to stay out of the water until further
notice.
Per standard protocol, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources was notified
of the incident.
Lifeguards will reassess the water Tuesday morning to determine if it is safe for
swimming.
For updates on beach conditions, speak to a county lifeguard or call the Ocean Safety
Bureau at 241-4984.