This post summarizes recent severe weather across the United States and the tropical Atlantic. Topics include the evolution of Hurricane Kiko as it approaches Hawaii, a damaging tornado in central Massachusetts, the dissipation of Invest 91L in the tropical Atlantic, and powerful frontal-driven waves along Lake Michigan.
I discuss what forecasters are saying and the threats residents face. Practical steps for preparedness are included based on three decades of meteorological experience.
Hurricane Kiko: a powerful storm that is weakening but still dangerous
Hurricane Kiko is currently classified as a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds near 115 mph. Observations and model guidance indicate it is gradually weakening.
Kiko is expected to track north of the Hawaiian Islands. It will likely downgrade to a tropical storm as it moves past the archipelago early this week.
Even as Kiko weakens, it remains a serious hazard. The State of Hawaii has declared a state of emergency.
Local officials are urging residents and visitors to prepare for strong winds, heavy rain, coastal flooding, dangerous surf, and possible power outages. The core of the storm may avoid a direct landfall, but the outer bands and elevated surf can still produce life-threatening conditions along exposed coastlines.
Implications for Hawaii and key preparedness steps
People in Hawaii should expect hazardous marine conditions and localized impacts from tropical-storm-force winds and heavy rain. The combination of saturated soils, gusty winds, and storm surge risk can still produce substantial damage and hazards for coastal communities.
Essential preparedness actions include:
Other notable hazards: tornadic winds in the Northeast and massive Lake Michigan waves
On Saturday, a line of intense thunderstorms swept through parts of the Northeast. At least one confirmed tornado occurred in central Massachusetts.
The storm system produced more than 100 reports of wind damage across the region. Video from Holden showed extensive tree damage and downed power lines.
Farther west, a strong cold front pushed across the Great Lakes region. This generated dramatic swells along Lake Michigan.
Waves up to 15 feet battered the Grand Haven South Pierhead Outer Lighthouse on Lake Michigan. These conditions highlighted the hazardous coastal impacts created by the frontal system.
Damage patterns and what to watch for after the storms
In central Massachusetts, the tornado caused toppled trees and widespread power outages. The National Weather Service plans to survey the area to confirm the tornado’s path and assess intensity.
This assessment will guide recovery and mitigation efforts.
Along the Great Lakes, coastlines should be aware that large waves and rip currents can persist well after the frontal passage. Winds continue to churn the water after storms move through.
Harbors, piers, and marinas are particularly vulnerable to structural damage during these high-wave events.
Key impacts observed include:
Even though Invest 91L fizzled before reaching the Lesser Antilles, the tropical Atlantic is only temporarily quiet.
The statistical peak of the hurricane season is underway, and residents in hurricane-prone areas should remain vigilant.
Here is the source article for this story: Daily Weather Update from FOX Weather: Kiko starts to weaken near Hawaii as severe storms rock Northeast