HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hurricane Kiko has strengthened to a Category 2 storm.
Kiko continues to strengthen in the East Pacific, approximately 1,700 miles from Hilo. Current forward motion is to the west of its center at seven miles per hour.
Additional strengthening is expected through Thursday, possibly hitting hurricane category three status.
By late Friday or early Saturday, Kiko will cross into the Central Pacific. During that time, a weakening Kiko will continue to steer towards Hawaii.
Any impacts are not known during this time, however, there is a good chance the islands will encounter some rain and light winds next week, starting late Tuesday through late Thursday.
A rain event is probable while winds remain near or below tropical depression status.
Confidence on the track is high through Friday, but decreases closer to the islands at this time. Stay tuned.