Hurricane Kiko approaches Hawaii as dangerous Category 4 storm

Hurricane Kiko, a powerful Category 4 storm with sustained winds reaching 140 mph, is tracking toward the Hawaiian Islands with potential impact in early to mid-September 2025.

Forecasters predicted temporary weakening over cooler waters, then the storm may strengthen before approaching the archipelago, carrying significant threats of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous surf.

AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva warned: "If Kiko continues toward Hawaii, even as a less intense tropical storm, it could still bring significant wind and rain to the islands next week."

The storm's exact path remains uncertain, with minimal impacts only expected if it veers substantially north or south of the islands.

Potential effects include destructive winds, flooding rainfall, coastal hazards which are capable of causing power outage, property damage, flash flooding and life-threatening rip currents along all shores.

Residents are urgently advised to monitor official updates from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center and stay prepared with emergency kits containing water, non-easily expirable food, medications, and power alternatives.

In addition to that, direct hurricane hits remain uncommon in Hawaii due to its isolated location of the state which faces heightened risk during late summer peak season.

Similar historical situations include 2018's Hurricane Lane, which caused catastrophic flooding despite weakening before landfall.