Hawaii’s main islands are at risk from a surging Hurricane Hector, which is now barrelling towards the Pacific Ocean.
The hurricane, which was upgraded to a category three last night, could grow in strength again due to conditions surrounding the area, but a firm outlook is yet to be decided.
It is feared a hurricane in Hawaii could trigger an eruption in the famously volcanic island chain.
The impact of the hurricane remains yet to be observed, but currently Hurricane Hector is on course to glance off at least one Hawaiian island.
Where is Hurricane Hector now?
Hurricane Hector is still a little way off making landfall in the USA – currently sitting 1587 miles (2555km) away from the nearest island.
As it stands, the hurricane is travelling at a speed of 12 kilometres per hour, making slow progress.
Hector is not destined to make significant landfall until Wednesday next week, when it will brush Big Island late in the morning.
Hurricane Hector will remain a strong force to be reckoned with as it journeys towards Hawaii.
Set to hit Big Island next Wednesday, Hector is expected to be downgraded from a major hurricane into a normal hurricane.
At the moment, wind speeds in the storm system are reaching more than 110pmh and fierce winds extend out 15km from the storm’s centre.
The next three days will see Hurricane Hectors wind speeds slow down to 74 to 110mph.
What damage could Hurricane Hector cause?
The National Hurricane Centre in the US has advised that there are no risks to land just yet, and there are no coastal watches or guards in effect.
Currently a category three Hurricane, Hector would be able to cause serious damage if it was over land.
Despite its distance, Hawaiian authorities have begun to prepare for potential damage, and have urged Hawaiians to do the same.
Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said in a news release: “Just as the city is going through its checklist ahead of any possible impact from Hurricane Hector, I’m asking Oahu residents and visitors do the same.”
Residents in the path of the storm have been warned to ensure they have a 14-day hurricane kit ready just in case.
Mayor Caldwell continued: “Now is the time to make sure your 14-day hurricane kit is fully stocked, and to check your home for any loose items or debris that could become projectiles during windy conditions.”
Hurricane Hector is on a direct collision course with Big Island, currently playing host to the devastating Kilauea volcano.
Scientists dispute the effects of a hurricane on volcanic eruptions, and it is believed low-pressure could trigger activity.
If Hector manages to collide with Kilauea and cause a further eruption, Big Island’s already uprooted population would considerable stress.