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Honolulu, Hawaii — Hurricane Kiko, currently a Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 130 mph, is churning in the Pacific about 1,000 miles southeast of Hilo. While the storm was initially a concern for the Hawaiian islands, the latest forecast shows Kiko tracking north, significantly lessening the threat of severe weather.
Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke issued an emergency proclamation Friday, but the current projection suggests the islands will be spared the brunt of the storm.
“The threat for any significant wind is diminishing,” explained Joseph Clark, a meteorologist with the Honolulu National Weather Service. He added that Kiko’s northward track could actually lead to lighter than normal winds and potentially hot, muggy conditions early to mid next week.
While some isolated showers are possible, widespread heavy rain is not anticipated.
Even though the wind threat is low, Kiko is still expected to generate swells that will impact the Big Island and Maui starting Sunday. These swells could create dangerous rip currents and produce surf of 10-15 feet along east-facing shores, potentially leading to beach erosion.
While meteorologists are increasingly confident in Kiko’s northward path, Clark cautioned that changes are still possible. A southward shift could bring heavier rains, while a further northward movement would diminish the threat even more. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest forecasts.