Hurricane Kiko triggers emergency state in Hawaii
Hurricane Kiko, currently a Category 3 storm, is heading towards Hawaii, with tropical storm-force winds, heavy rainfall, and high surf expected to begin affecting portions of the islands as early as Monday, September 8, 2025.
The acting governor of Hawaii, Sylvia Luke, has issued a state of emergency, activating emergency measures and resources to facilitate a swift response to the impending storm. The state of emergency covers the entire state of Hawaii and has been in effect since Friday afternoon.
In preparation for Hurricane Kiko, Hawaii is encouraging all residents to monitor official updates, follow preparedness instructions, and ensure they have emergency supplies on hand. The emergency proclamation suspends several state laws to expedite emergency response and recovery activities, and the disaster emergency relief period continues through Sept. 19.
The emergency proclamation also activates the Major Disaster Fund to provide financial resources for emergency actions and authorises the Hawaii National Guard to assist civilian authorities. The governor's office urges residents and visitors to monitor updates, follow official guidance, and prepare accordingly.
As Hurricane Kiko moves, it is expected to gradually weaken over the next 24-48 hours. By next week, the storm is forecast to weaken to a tropical storm. Rapid weakening will occur as Hurricane Kiko approaches the Hawaiian Islands due to unfavourable conditions, including cooler ocean temperatures and dry air.
The projected land path of Hurricane Kiko on Monday, September 8, 2025, is passing southeast of Hawaii, moving with a west-northwest course near coordinates 20.3N 148.8W in the central Pacific. It is expected to affect the northern parts of the Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday and Wednesday with strong winds, high waves, and dangerous coastal currents while continuing to weaken.
The swells from Hurricane Kiko are forecast to begin reaching the Big Island and Maui later Sunday. The swells are expected to peak along east-facing shores of the Hawaiian Islands during the early to middle part of next week. Potential dangerous surf and rip currents are expected due to the swells from Hurricane Kiko.
The forecast suggests that it is more likely that Hurricane Kiko will pass far enough north of Hawaii next week. However, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and follow official updates, as the storm's path can change.
In addition to the potential impacts of Hurricane Kiko, Hawaii's emergency management agencies are directing all state agencies to cooperate in response efforts. The emergency proclamation directs all state agencies to work together to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the storm.
In conclusion, Hurricane Kiko is approaching Hawaii, and residents are encouraged to prepare for the potential impacts of the storm. The state of emergency has been declared, and emergency measures and resources have been activated to facilitate a swift response to the impending storm. Residents and visitors are urged to monitor updates, follow official guidance, and prepare accordingly.
