Forecasters warned that swells from Hurricane Kiko could reach the Hawaiian Islands by the end of the weekend and cause life-threatening surf and rip currents.

Radar loop of Hurricane Katrina. At the time, hurricane forecasters pointed to a combination of factors. In the storm's early formation stages, computer models underestimated the strength of a ridge of high pressure over the northern Gulf and Southeast.

The state of Hawaii issued an emergency declaration on Sept. 5, an administrative action government agencies often take before tropical storms, hurricanes and other impending weather disasters. Such declarations pave the way for emergency measures and resources that allow officials to respond quickly during emergencies.

A rotating loop showing Hurricane Erin, which is pulling away from North Carolina's coast on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025.