Hurricane Iona Strengthens as Tropical Storm Keli Forms in Central Pacific

Why this matters: While direct impact is not expected, residents should monitor conditions for potential indirect effects like increased wildfire risk and high surf.

Hurricane Iona, the first named storm of the season in the central Pacific, has intensified into a Category 3 hurricane. Located approximately 765 miles south-southeast of Honolulu, Iona is moving westward and expected to gradually increase in speed. While forecasters predict weakening by Wednesday, the storm is currently a major weather system. Simultaneously, Tropical Storm Keli has formed and is located about 890 miles southeast of Honolulu. Keli is also moving westward, with little change in strength expected over the next few days.

Although direct impacts are not anticipated, the increased trade winds associated with these storms, combined with existing drought conditions, could elevate wildfire risks across the Hawaiian Islands. Additionally, a large swell originating near New Zealand is forecast to hit Hawaii around the same time the storms pass, potentially causing high surf along the south shores.

No direct impacts are currently expected.

Increased wildfire risk due to trade winds and high surf from a separate swell.

Hurricane Iona is a Category 3 hurricane with 125 mph winds. Tropical Storm Keli has 40 mph winds.

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