Hurricane Kiko: Hawaii Braces for Surf as Storm Weakens! Latest Updates
Hawaii is on alert as Hurricane Kiko continues its northwestward path, though the risk of direct impact to the islands is decreasing. What started as a tropical depression in the eastern Pacific has now weakened to a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to further downgrade to a tropical storm by late Monday, Sept. 8th.
Hawaii Declares State of Emergency
Earlier in the week, as Hurricane Kiko strengthened, Hawaii declared a state of emergency in anticipation of tropical storm-force winds, heavy rain, and high surf. At its peak, Kiko reached Category 4 status with sustained winds of 145 mph. While the storm has since weakened, dangerous conditions persist.
Current Location and Forecast
As of Monday, Sept. 8th, Hurricane Kiko was located approximately 350 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, and about 515 miles east of Honolulu. It's moving northwest at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds estimated at 85 mph. Forecasters predict that Kiko will pass well north of the main Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- High Surf Advisory Likely: Swells generated by Kiko are forecast to gradually build and peak along east-facing exposures of the Hawaiian Islands late Monday through midweek.
- Life-Threatening Surf and Rip Currents: This could potentially produce life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
- Tropical Storm Warning: A tropical storm warning is in effect for Hawaiian offshore waters, from 40 nautical miles to 240 miles offshore.
The National Weather Service is closely monitoring the situation and will likely issue a high surf advisory or warning for east-facing shores overnight Monday. Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and heed all warnings from local authorities.
Elsewhere: Spain Braces for Thunderstorms
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, severe thunderstorms are forecast for eastern Spain and the Balearic Islands. The national weather agency, Aemet, has issued yellow and amber warnings for parts of Catalonia, Aragon, and Valencia, with potential for hail, powerful gusts, and intense rainfall.