Tropical Storm Kilo could bring heavy rain showers this weekend as it makes its closest forecasted approach to the Big Island.
Tropical Storm Kilo could bring heavy rain showers this weekend as it makes its closest forecasted approach to the Big Island.
Chevy Chevalier, National Weather Service meteorologist, said residents should be prepared for the possibility of flash flooding.
“We are expecting quite a bit of rain,” he said. “That would be the biggest concern right now.”
Chevalier said the storm is forecast to reach about 400 miles from the isle as it follows a northwest track. By Monday morning, Kilo is forecast to strengthen to a hurricane as it shifts to the north, possibly toward Kauai.
There’s still a lot of uncertainty about its path 2-3 days out and it’s not clear how close Kilo would come to the Big Isle after it makes that northward shift, he cautioned.
Meanwhile, Gov. David Ige has signed an emergency proclamation that activates the state’s major disaster fund in anticipation of Kilo’s arrival.
As of 11 a.m. Friday, the storm was 480 miles south/southeast of Hilo with 40 mph maximum sustained winds. Tropical storm force winds extend 70 miles from the storm’s center.
Chevalier said it’s unlikely the Big Island will see strong winds, though heavy surf is possible.