Seventeen-year-old Kahiau Kawai was rescued after nearly 12 hours lost at sea, following a kayaking accident that left him capsized and adrift without a life jacket, prompting a large-scale search operation.

Kawai, who capsized while kayaking with his high school team, was located by U.S. Coast Guard assets and an off-duty lifeguard after extensive search efforts began late Wednesday evening. His ordeal highlights the risks associated with water sports and the critical importance of safety measures, particularly wearing life jackets. Thankfully, Kawai was found alive, although he suffered from hypothermia and dehydration, underscoring the life-saving work of local rescue teams.

According to reports, Kawai was paddling a 20-foot surf ski when he capsized, resulting in him being separated from his teammates. The incident occurred earlier in the evening, and when he failed to return, his team notified authorities, prompting an immediate response.

Search and rescue operations commenced around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The U.S. Coast Guard deployed several assets, including rescue boats and aircraft, to locate the missing teenager. Their search operations involved the use of an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter and an HC-130 Hercules airplane as part of a coordinated effort.

As the night progressed, the search continued, and Kawai was spotted by a U.S. Coast Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft around 4 a.m. on Thursday. His situation hung in the balance as rescue teams utilized advanced search technologies, including airborne and maritime resources, to cover a larger area of the ocean.

Around 4 a.m. on Thursday, Kawai was spotted by a U.S. Coast Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft, providing a glimmer of hope to the rescue teams. Shortly after the sighting, off-duty lifeguard Noland Keaulana took it upon himself to conduct a personal search in the waters.

Keaulana located Kawai approximately an hour later, and he recounted his emotional experience upon finding the teenager. 'I was actually crying my guts off because he was okay,' Keaulana stated, reflecting the relief felt by both the rescuer and the rescue teams involved in the operation.

Upon being rescued, Kawai was treated for various health issues, including hypothermia, dehydration, and severe cramping. He was assessed as being in serious but stable condition, indicating the potential dangers he faced after being exposed to the elements for so long without proper safety equipment.

During his rescue, Kawai expressed concern for his mother, indicating that he was worried she missed him. This emotional connection highlights the personal impact of such traumatic experiences on both victims and their families.

Kawai was then transported to Ala Wai Harbor, where he received immediate medical care from emergency personnel. After his initial treatment, he was subsequently taken to a hospital for further evaluation and care, ensuring that he would receive the necessary assistance to recover from his ordeal.

Kawai's family released a heartfelt statement in the aftermath, expressing their profound gratitude toward the rescuers who played crucial roles in finding him and ensuring his safe return. They emphasized their appreciation of the community's efforts and the importance of the swift response by both the U.S. Coast Guard and local lifeguards.

This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of water sports and the paramount importance of adhering to safety protocols, such as the use of life jackets. This case stresses the critical nature of safety while engaging in activities on the ocean.

As Kawai recovers from his harrowing experience, the fishing and kayaking communities are reminded to prioritize safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.