A dramatic viral video from Hawaii captured the moment a massive wave on Oahu's North Shore engulfed three swimmers, leaving them with injuries and narrowly escaping a more tragic outcome.
Now, the internet is buzzing with reactions to the video which shows the three swimmers getting engulfed by the massive waves, two of whom are not seen swimming up until the very end of the lengthy video.
In a post, an X user shared the video with details surrounding the incident. It said:
"According to Honolulu Ocean Safety, the individuals in the video survived however they were injured with large cuts from the rocks. This video speaks volumes to how dangerous it can be, Honolulu Ocean Safety said."
People responded by highlighting the inherent dangers of swimming in open waters, with many sharing their own harrowing experiences of navigating unpredictable ocean conditions.
A user wrote, "They are lucky to be alive."
"I almost died in North Shore when I was stationed there. I mean I really almost died. I was inhaling a lot of salt water and couldnt seem to swim out for a while. I was getting tired and felt myself getting sick from the water. I didn't give up. I was also cut up quite badly." shared another.
"Another user echoed— "The ocean is one of the most powerful forces on Earth. Some people really don't respect how powerful it is"
"Glad they survived, but those waves are no joke.", wrote another user.
Some X users also highlighted how the actions of the three swimmers were reckless. One user wrote:
"I don't understand who would think that is a good idea to be in that specific area lol Glad they are all OK though!"
"Looks like they were begging for it! FAFO," another user chimed in.
What exactly happened at the Hawaii Beach?
Matt Moore, a California-based surfing expert, was visiting a beach on Oahu's North Shore in Hawaii on November 29. He and other beachgoers noticed that three men were struck by a massive wave in a rocky section of the beach.
As reported by the Daily Mail, as the wave surged, two of the swimmers were swept underwater, while a third man tried to cling to the rocks. The wave quickly submerged them, and after it passed, the men slowly got back to their feet. However, within seconds, a second wave crashed down on them, throwing them back into the water.
The two swimmers closest to the wave were immediately pulled under again, while the third managed to keep his head above the water and float to safety. The first two men did not resurface after the second wave, but the third swimmer managed to survive all four waves that hit them.
After witnessing the dangerous scene, an unidentified woman suggested to Moore that they call for help. Fortunately, despite the severity of the incident, all three swimmers were injured but survived and made it out of the water. The incident took place between Sharks Cove and Ke Iki.
The North Shore is known for its powerful winter waves, with the summer waves averaging two to four feet and the winter waves ranging between six to eight feet. Advanced areas of the shore can see waves that reach up to 30 to 50 feet during the winter season.