Almost 2,000 box jellyfish invaded beaches along Waikiki and Ala Moana Beach Park today and 177 people were treated for stings.

As early as 10:30 a.m., more than 40 people were standing in line at a Waikiki Beach lifeguard tower waiting to have stings tended to by city paramedics, according to emergency radio transmissions.

Bryan Cheplic, spokesman for the city Emergency Services Department, said five people were taken to area hospitals for treatment but that none of the situations were severe. "It was mostly a precaution," he said.

Water Safety officials had assumed that this month's influx of the tiny marine jellies, which can pack a very painful and occasionally deadly sting, would be relatively minor since only about 400 the creatures were found Friday, which was expected to be the peak arrival day.

"It just goes to show how unpredictable Mother Nature can be," Cheplic said.

Warning signs have been posted, but people headed for beaches staffed by city lifeguards should check with them before entering the water, Cheplic said.

"We'll be out on the beaches early Sunday to warn people and monitor the situation," Cheplic said. "We're hoping it will slow down."

Ocean safety experts have said that the only way to prevent being stung is to stay out of the water.

For more information visit websites www.808jellyfish.com or www.hawaiibeachsafety.org.