Hurricane Kiko Approaches Hawaiian Islands, Prompting Emergency Declaration

Lead: Category 4 Hurricane Kiko, located about 1,205 miles east-southeast of Honolulu, is barreling west-northwest at 25 mph toward Hawaii, triggering a statewide emergency as life-threatening surf and rip currents loom.

Nut Graf: With swells forecast to impact the Big Island and Maui by Sunday and peak along east-facing shores early next week, Hawaii’s acting governor, Sylvia Luke, has mobilized resources to safeguard public health and infrastructure ahead of potential tropical‐storm-force conditions.

State of Emergency and Preparations

  • Acting Governor Sylvia Luke issued a proclamation on Friday, activating emergency measures and the Major Disaster Fund statewide.
  • The Hawaii National Guard and all state agencies have been directed to clear debris, secure critical infrastructure, and support rapid response efforts.
  • Residents and visitors are urged to monitor official updates, assemble emergency supplies, and follow guidance from local authorities.

Hurricane Status and Forecast

  • As of 5 a.m. HST (11 a.m. EST), Kiko’s maximum sustained winds measured 130 mph, classifying it as a Category 4 system.
  • Forecast models predict gradual weakening as Kiko encounters cooler ocean temperatures and drier air, likely downgrading to Category 2 or tropical storm strength before passing north of the islands.
  • Uncertainty remains over the storm’s exact track and intensity upon reaching Hawaiian waters.

Expected Impacts

  • Life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated along east-facing exposures of the Hawaiian Islands starting Sunday, with waves potentially reaching 10-15 feet.
  • Swells may cause coastal erosion and hazardous beach conditions, prompting advisories from the National Weather Service.
  • Indirect effects-such as high surf, dangerous currents, and isolated wind gusts-are expected to be the primary hazards if Kiko remains north of the islands.

Key Messages for Residents and Visitors

  • Review and update family emergency plans and evacuation routes.
  • Secure loose outdoor items and reinforce windows and doors.
  • Avoid entering the ocean due to dangerous surf conditions.
  • Stay tuned to Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and National Weather Service bulletins for potential watches or warnings.

Hawaii’s disaster emergency relief period is set through Sept. 19 but may be extended based on evolving storm conditions.