HONOLULU — The Coast Guard is seeking the public’s help identifying the owner of an uncrewed, adrift kayak found approximately 100 yards off Bellows Beach near Lanikai, Oahu, Sunday.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Station Barbers Point launched to search the area. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast notice to mariners to keep a sharp lookout for signs of distress. There are currently no reports of missing persons in the area. Anyone with information that may help identify the owner of the kayak is asked to contact Sector Honolulu at 808-842-2600.
At 7:30 a.m., watchstanders from the Sector Honolulu command center received notification from a good Samaritan onshore regarding the green, two-person kayak spotted offshore.
A storm warning and high surf warning are in effect for all of the main Hawaiian Islands. A storm low north of the islands is moving east creating winds of 30 to 50 knots and seas 12 to 36 feet. West and north facing beaches on all islands are currently rated at extreme or high hazard. These conditions are extremely hazardous. People are advised to stay out of the ocean. To check current conditions, please visit http://hawaiibeachsafety.com.
With high winds in the vicinity owners of watersports equipment should ensure this gear is secure and brought up off the beach. It is also recommended owners write their name and phone number on their items.
"The Coast Guard offers free “If Found” decals to mark gear or you write directly on it," said xx, Sector Honolulu. "The information on the sticker can allow responders to determine if someone is in distress more quickly and help us get your gear back to you."
The stickers can be obtained for free at local harbormasters, through the Coast Guard Auxiliary, from Honolulu Sail and Power Squadron offices and at select marine retail and supply stores. Similarly, if you lose kayaks, surfboard or safety equipment such as lifejackets, please report it to the Coast Guard to help our search and rescue specialists deconflict possible distress reports.