Meteorologists continue to monitor Hurricane Kiko, with the system expected to approach the Hawaiian Islands in the days ahead.
Why It Matters
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that swells generated by the hurricane are expected to reach the Big Island and Maui by Sunday.
“These swells will gradually build and are forecast to peak along east-facing exposures of the Hawaiian Islands late Monday through midweek, potentially producing life-threatening surf and rip currents,” it said.
What To Know
In a Sunday update on Kiko, the NHC said the Category 3 hurricane was located around 785 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, with maximum sustained winds near 125 miles per hour.
The system is moving west-northwestward at around 13 mph—a general motion expected to continue over the next few days, the NHC said.
The agency added that the system was expected to gradually weaken in the coming days.
“Kiko is forecast to approach the Hawaiian Islands during the early to middle portion of next week,” said the NHC.
“While the forecast track currently calls for Kiko to pass north of the islands, it is still too soon to determine the exact location or magnitude of potential impacts from the cyclone’s winds or rains.”
A state of emergency was declared across Hawaii on Friday due to possible extreme weather posed by Kiko, the state’s governor’s office said.
What People Are Saying
In a September 5 press release, Acting Governor Sylvia Luke said: “To ensure the safety and preparedness of our communities, the state and counties will stand ready to mobilize resources to clear debris, secure infrastructure, and respond quickly to any possible damage caused by the storm.
“We urge residents and visitors to monitor updates, follow official guidance and prepare accordingly.”
The National Weather Service forecast office, Honolulu, Hawaii, said in a post on X, Sunday: “Kiko is forecast to approach Hawaii early to mid next week. The forecast track currently for Kiko to pass north of Hawaii. It still too soon to determine the exact location/magnitude of potential impacts from Kiko. Interests in the islands should continue to monitor Kiko’s progress.”
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said on X, Saturday: “Kiko will approach Hawaiʻi during the early to middle portion of next week.
“Wind and rain impacts remain a possibility, but it is still too soon to determine the exact location and magnitude of these impacts.
“All Hawaiian Islands should continue to monitor and prepare.”
What Happens Next
Regular forecast updates are issued by the NHC on its website and social media channels. The agency said that interests in the Hawaiian Islands should continue monitoring the storm’s progress.
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