Newly Formed Hurricane Hector May Threaten Hawai‘i

Hurricane Hector rapidly intensified over the last 24 hours, with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph and up to 110 mph.

It is expected to become more powerful as it reaches 600 miles southeast of Hawai‘i island in five days, according to the National Weather Service.

Hector is expected to gradually intensify and reach Central Pacific waters on Sunday.

At 5 a.m. today, Hector was moving west at 14 mph and was centered 2,026 miles east-southeast of Hilo.

Hector is expected to develop into a Category 3 hurricane by early next week, with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph.

The storm is still too far from Hawai‘i to predict how it might affect the state; however, officials advise the public to keep informed and check emergency supply kits now.