Hurricane Kiko Tracks West, Potential Impacts for Hawaii Increasing
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hurricane Kiko, currently a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 125 mph, is moving westward and poses a growing, though still uncertain, threat to the Hawaiian Islands. As of 5 p.m. HST, Kiko was located approximately 1,360 miles east-southeast of Hilo and 1,565 miles east-southeast of Honolulu, traveling west at 9 mph.
While Kiko has weakened slightly from 130 mph earlier Thursday, forecast models indicate a potential for re-intensification through Friday. The storm is expected to cross into the Central Pacific late friday into early Saturday.
The National Hurricane Center reports hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles from Kiko’s center, with tropical storm-force winds reaching 80 miles. A gradual turn toward the west-northwest is anticipated Thursday night, with an increase in forward speed expected over the weekend.
Currently, Kiko is forecast to approach the islands during the early to middle portion of next week.While the exact track and intensity remain uncertain, the risk of impacts from wind and rain is increasing. Forecasters also highlight the possibility of flooding rainfall beginning as early as Monday into early Thursday.
Beyond wind and rain, Kiko is expected to generate dangerous surf and rip currents, particularly along east-facing shores, starting later this weekend.
Despite an anticipated weakening trend as Kiko encounters cooler sea surface temperatures, increased wind shear, and a dry airmass, the official forecast still has the system approaching Hawaii as a tropical storm.
Residents are urged to use this time to prepare, ensuring hurricane supplies are stocked and preparations are made to protect themselves and their families (“ohana”). The First Alert Weather Team will continue to monitor Kiko closely and provide updates as they become available.
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