FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                       May 11, 2007

BOX JELLYFISH INFLUX FORCES

CLOSURE OF HANAUMA BAY

City Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services personnel along with the City Department of Parks and Recreation have decided to close Hanauma Bay due to a high number of box jellyfish spotted on the beach and in the near shore waters this morning.

"The main influx of box jellyfish was expected today however there has been an unusually large number of the creatures found at Hanauma Bay this morning," said Bryan Cheplic, public information officer for the Honolulu Emergency Services Department. "After discussing the situation with the Parks and Recreation Department, the decision was made to close the bay effective at 7:35 a.m."

In less than an hour, more than 20 box jellyfish were found on the beach at Hanauma Bay this morning with countless more spotted floating just offshore. More than 600 box jellyfish were also found on Waikiki Beach this morning, but no stings have yet been reported.  

The situation will be re-assessed tomorrow morning and a decision will be made to keep Hanauma Bay closed or open it back up to the public.

Lifeguards assess beaches for box jellyfish during the monthly alert period. If box jellyfish are discovered, warning signs are posted as warranted.

 Persons stung by box jellyfish are advised to flush the sting area with copious amounts of white vinegar.  Anyone experiencing breathing difficulty, muscle cramps/spasms, and/or persistent pain are advised to seek immediate medical attention. Lifeguard stations are supplied and equipped to treat this type of marine sting.

For information regarding ocean conditions, advisories, and warnings, the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division provides a recorded report that is available 24 hours a day at 922-3888 x 51 or visit www.honolulu.gov/esd/oceansafety/boxjellymainpage.htm.

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Contact:

            Bryan Cheplic, HESD PIO (808) 723-7814