Hawaii is now under a state of emergency as it braces for the impact of Category 4 Hurricane Kiko, state officials said this week. Photo courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Hawaii is now under a state of emergency as it braces for the impact of a Category 4 hurricane, state officials confirmed this week.
Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke issued the state of emergency with Hurricane Kiko now located approximately 1,200 miles southeast of Honolulu and 1,000 miles from Hilo, as of the latest update Saturday from the National Hurricane Center.
“The disaster emergency relief period will commence immediately and continue through Friday, September 19, 2025, unless extended or terminated earlier,” Luke, the state’s lieutenant governor, said in a statement.
Here are the 5 AM HST Key Messages for Hurricane #Kiko. Swells may begin to reach the eastern portions of Hawaii Sunday producing life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. For updated information visit https://t.co/Oy8uoeRKme pic.twitter.com/v04gdb26mJ— NHC Pacific (@NHC_Pacific) September 6, 2025
“To ensure the safety and preparedness of our communities, the state and counties will stand ready to mobilize resources to clear debris, secure infrastructure, and respond quickly to any possible damage caused by the storm. We urge residents and visitors to monitor updates, follow official guidance and prepare accordingly,” Luke said.
Kiko reached Category 4 status before weakening to a Category 3 storm Thursday, but by Saturday the storm had once again strengthened to a Category 4 hurricane.
Hawaii officials expect high surf and tropical storm-level rain and wind to start hitting the state as early as Monday.
“Swells generated by Hurricane Kiko are expected to begin reaching the Big Island and Maui by Sunday,” the National Hurricane Center update states.
“These swells will gradually build and are forecast to peak along east-facing exposures of the Hawaiian Islands late Monday through midweek, potentially producing life-threatening surf and rip currents,” NHC said.
The state of emergency allows state officials to temporarily suspend some laws to facilitate expedited emergency response and recovery activities.
It also authorizes the state to use the Hawai’i National Guard to help with recovery efforts.
