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Hawaii is bracing for Hurricane Kiko as the state’s acting governor, Sylvia Luke, declared a statewide emergency Friday — with the powerful Pacific storm on a path to batter the state on Monday.

“The proclamation activates emergency measures and resources to protect public health, safety and welfare,” Luke’s office announced.

“Tropical storm-force winds, heavy rainfall and high surf associated with Hurricane Kiko could begin affecting portions of the state as early as Monday, September 8, 2025.”


  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects Hurricane Kiko’s course as the storm weakens from Category 3 strength. AP The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects Hurricane Kiko’s course as the storm weakens from Category 3 strength. AP

The order activates the Hawaii National Guard, frees up state disaster funds and suspends procurement and regulatory laws to speed storm response.

It also authorizes all state agencies to coordinate disaster efforts through at least Sept. 19.

Luke vowed Hawaii is ready to respond.

“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,” she said.

“We urge residents and visitors to monitor updates, follow official guidance and prepare accordingly.”


  A GOES-West GeoColor satellite image captures Hurricane Kiko swirling in the eastern Pacific. @CIRA_CSU/X A GOES-West GeoColor satellite image captures Hurricane Kiko swirling in the eastern Pacific. @CIRA_CSU/X

  A satellite map shows Hurricane Kiko’s projected path as the storm churns northwest across the Pacific toward Hawaii. NOAA A satellite map shows Hurricane Kiko’s projected path as the storm churns northwest across the Pacific toward Hawaii. NOAA

As of Saturday, Kiko weakened slightly to a Category 3 hurricane roughly 1,000 miles east of Hawaii. Forecasters expect it to lose steam as it pushes northwest into cooler waters and drier air.

“The system continues to weaken,” James Barros, administrator of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, told The Post.

“On the current track, we don’t anticipate putting the state under a watch or warning. The threat has pretty much declined for us — two days ago there was uncertainty over the entire state, but now the storm has shifted north.”

Barros said that state officials were still posturing “in case the forecast is off or the storm shifts south.”

“There are still possible impacts, including wind and rain, but we’re not anticipating tropical-storm-force winds,” Barros said.

“Gusts could disrupt trade wind patterns, and most of the rain forecast is from remnants behind the system rather than the storm itself.”


  A NOAA forecast graphic shows the probability of tropical-storm-force winds from Hurricane Kiko. NOAA A NOAA forecast graphic shows the probability of tropical-storm-force winds from Hurricane Kiko. NOAA

Even without a direct hit, the storm is expected to hammer the state with dangerous surf. Rough swells from Kiko could begin striking the Big Island and Maui on Sunday, peaking along east-facing shores early next week.

Rip currents and hazardous surf conditions are likely.

Meteorologists say widespread wind damage and flooding are less likely, but stressed that conditions could shift. The state’s emergency proclamation ensures resources are positioned in case the storm’s track veers closer.

The disaster declaration also clears legal hurdles to speed cleanup and repairs if Kiko brings debris or infrastructure damage.

Temporary suspension of state laws related to public works, procurement and environmental reviews is intended to allow crews to move fast.


  A NOAA model depicts expected wind speeds and Kiko’s track as the storm approaches Hawaii. NOAA A NOAA model depicts expected wind speeds and Kiko’s track as the storm approaches Hawaii. NOAA

  Waves crash near Papikous on Hawaii’s Big Island as officials warn dangerous surf could hit shores early next week. Visions of America/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Waves crash near Papikous on Hawaii’s Big Island as officials warn dangerous surf could hit shores early next week. Visions of America/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Residents have been urged to stock up on water, batteries and food while tourists are advised to monitor flight and hotel alerts in case of cancellations.

Emergency shelters are being prepared in coordination with local counties.

The storm comes at the tail end of Hawaii’s summer travel season, when visitor counts are still high and island infrastructure is heavily strained. Hotels along the Kona and Maui coasts are alerting guests to prepare for potential surf advisories.

Hawaii’s Democratic governor, Josh Green, has been in Italy as part of a trip that saw him meet Pope Leo XIV. He was expected to be back in the state on Sunday, according to his office.

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