HONOLULU, Hawaii – Hurricane Kiko, now holding steady as a Category 4 storm with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, is moving west-northwest at 10 mph and is on track to approach the Hawaiian Islands early next week. The storm is forecast to near the Big Island Monday night into Tuesday, though its exact path and distance remain uncertain.
According to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu, Kiko’s projected track shows the system passing just south of the Big Island late Monday into early Tuesday. The cone of uncertainty still spans several hundred miles, meaning a close brush or a more direct impact cannot yet be ruled out. The storm’s size means hazardous conditions could extend well outside the forecast track.
Residents of Hilo, Kona, and surrounding Big Island communities should prepare for the possibility of tropical storm-force winds, heavy rain, and high surf as early as late Monday. Hawaii County Civil Defense is urging residents to secure outdoor items, stock up on essentials, and be ready for potential power outages.
Statewide, emergency officials are cautioning residents and visitors not to focus solely on the forecast cone, since impacts from wind and rain can occur far from the center. Coastal flooding, rough surf, and dangerous rip currents are also possible across island shores.
Kiko is expected to weaken slightly as it moves closer to Hawaii but will likely remain a powerful hurricane. Watches and warnings may be issued for portions of the state over the weekend.
Five Day Forecast for Honolulu, Hawaii: Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 88. Breezy trade winds 15–25 mph. Sunday: Increasing clouds, scattered showers, highs mid-80s. Breezy. Monday: Cloudy, heavy rain possible by evening. Winds increasing, gusts 35+ mph. Tuesday: Rain and thunderstorms likely. Risk of damaging winds and coastal flooding. Wednesday: Showers tapering off, highs mid-80s. Winds easing but seas remain rough.
