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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Monday, February 8, 2010

Jellyfish arrival forces closure of Hanauma Bay

Advertiser Staff

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Warning signs were posted at Hanauma Bay advising that the beach was closed because of a box jellyfish invasion.

ANDREW SHIMABUKU | The Honolulu Advertiser

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City officials will decide today whether to reopen Hanauma Bay, which was closed yesterday after a box jellyfish influx.

Lifeguards counted more than 40 box jellyfish in less than an hour yesterday morning and saw several more floating offshore, said Bryan Cheplic, spokesman for the city's Emergency Services Department.

More than 400 box jellyfish were also found at Yokohama Beach. Box jellyfish were also spotted at Ala Moana and Waikíkí beaches.

"Due to the potential risk to public safety the City's Parks and Recreation Department along with the Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division made the decision to close the bay effective at 7:30 a.m.," Cheplic said.