In brief
As Tropical Storm Kiko weakens north of Hawaii, the islands are experiencing dangerous surf and rip currents. Forecasters indicate it will continue to move west-northwest without making direct landfall, but warn that conditions could change. Waves may reach dangerous heights, peaking on Tuesday and Wednesday.
HONOLULU (AP) — Tropical Storm Kiko is generating hazardous surf conditions and rip currents for parts of Hawaii, even as it loses strength just north of the islands, meteorologists report. The National Hurricane Center indicates that Kiko will pass approximately 220 miles north of Hilo and about 220 miles east-northeast of Honolulu on Tuesday and Wednesday. With maximum sustained winds of around 40 mph (65 kph), the storm is expected to maintain its west-northwest movement at 14 mph (23 kph). Despite the anticipated trajectory, forecasters have urged residents to stay vigilant as conditions might alter. As waves are predicted to reach dangerous levels on Tuesday and Wednesday, authorities are cautioning about life-threatening surf and rip currents, though currently, no coastal watches or warnings are in effect. Residents are encouraged to monitor the storm's path and prepare for possible changes.}
