Hurricane Karina Strengthens Over Open Waters

Why it matters locally: As an island state, Hawaii is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, even those strengthening far offshore. The National Hurricane Center's monitoring of rapid intensification is a critical consideration for preparedness efforts by agencies like the Honolulu Emergency Services Department and the Hawaiʻi Police Department.

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Hurricane Karina intensified quickly since its classification as a hurricane on Sunday. The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami attributed this rapid strengthening to warm waters located far offshore.