Portions of Makua Beach to close while Army searches for unexplo - Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL

Come next week, portions of Makua Beach will be closed off as the Army searches for unexploded ordnances.

On Friday, the Army said specialized divers will comb through a 22-acre of waters just offshore beginning April 2 until May 23.

Army officials stressed that public safety is their priority during the searches.

The public will be kept away from the search zone which will be marked with buoys. Swimming and boating will be not allowed. Parts of the beach will also be designated to house special equipment for the searches.

In 2016, a diver discovered an unexploded ordnance in the area. The Navy was called in to destroy the item.

If ordinances are found this time around, a plan will be formed pending the conditions of the discovery.

The search was supposed to happen in Oct. 2016, but problems with hyperbaric chamber put the project on hold.

Army officials will work alongside the DLNR for parts of the search and any disposal.

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