Hurricane Kiko weakened to a Category 1 storm early today as it moved closer to Hawaii but is still expected to pass north of the islands Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing large surf and increased humidity.
As of 5 a.m., Kiko was about 410 miles east of Hilo and 590 miles east of Honolulu with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. The storm was moving west-northwest at about 15 mph. Forecasters expect Kiko to weaken into a tropical storm by tonight.
While no coastal watches or warnings are in effect, a tropical storm warning has been issued for offshore waters beyond 40 nautical miles out to 240 nautical miles, including the portion of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument east of French Frigate Shoals, where rough seas, stronger win