HONOLULU (Island News) — Acting Governor Sylvia Luke issued an emergency proclamation today at 1:10 p.m. declaring a state of emergency across the entire state of Hawai‘i due to the possible inclement weather posed by Hurricane Kiko. As of 8 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, Hurricane Kiko, a major hurricane located approximately 1,200 miles east-southeast of Hawai‘i, is forecast to approach the islands as a tropical storm early next week.
The disaster emergency relief period will commence immediately and continue through Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, unless extended or terminated earlier.
The proclamation activates emergency measures and resources to protect public health, safety and welfare. Tropical storm-force winds, heavy rainfall and high surf associated with Hurricane Kiko could begin affecting portions of the state as early as Monday, Sept. 8, 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,” said Acting Governor Sylvia Luke. “We urge residents and visitors to monitor updates, follow official guidance and prepare accordingly.”
The emergency proclamation authorizes the Hawai‘i National Guard to assist civilian authorities and directs all state agencies to cooperate in response efforts. It also activates the Major Disaster Fund to provide financial resources for emergency actions.
Several state laws are temporarily suspended to facilitate expedited emergency response and recovery activities, including provisions related to procurement, public works and environmental regulations.
As of early Friday morning, Hurricane Kiko is located about 1,245 miles southeast of Hilo and around 1,450 miles southeast of Honolulu. The storm is moving slowly toward the west-northwest at about 9 miles per hour and is expected to continue in that direction over the next few days.
Kiko is currently a Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 miles per hour. Some changes in strength are expected, and the storm is forecast to weaken by early next week as it gets closer to the Central Pacific region.
Even though Kiko is still far from the Hawaiian Islands, residents should pay attention to updates from the National Weather Service. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect at this time, but the hurricane may begin to send swells toward the islands by the end of the weekend. These waves could create dangerous surf and rip currents along some shorelines.
It’s too early to say exactly how Kiko will affect the islands, but any impacts would likely begin late this weekend or early next week. Stay informed by checking official forecasts and surf advisories as conditions evolve.
