The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Brown Water Advisory for the West Hawaii coastline, specifically from South Point north to Pololu Valley.

The advisory is due to high surf conditions, which can lead to increased levels of pollutants in coastal waters. The DOH advises the public to avoid entering the water when it appears brown or murky, especially after storms or heavy rainfall.

The Department of Health also reminds the public to avoid swimming, wading, or drinking water from freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.

The public is urged to remember the saying: “If the water is brown, turn around.”

For more information about the Brown Water Advisory, please visit: https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb#!/event/1894/details/view

For more information on leptospirosis, please visit: https://health.hawaii.gov/docd/disease_listing/leptospirosis/