As Hurricane Kiko approaches Hawaii Island, officials are urging residents and visitors to be prepared to respond, if necessary, to possible impacts from the storm.

“September is in the heart of hurricane season, and even a near-miss storm can bring serious damage, injuries or loss of life,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “It’s not clear yet what Kiko will bring our way, but we know the best way to reduce risk is to be prepared and make a plan to stay safe.”

Kiko entered the Central Pacific Basin early Saturday, moving on a west-northwesterly track that, if accurate, would result in a somewhat weaker storm, still a hurricane, passing to the north of the Big Island late Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

On Friday, Acting Gov. Sylvia Luke issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergenc

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