HONOLULU (AP) — The first hurricane expected to hit Hawaii in 22 years has weakened slightly as its outer edges begin to bring rain and wind to the Big Island.
Residents and tourists are preparing for a possible one-two punch as another major storm lines up behind it in the Pacific.
The eye of Hurricane Iselle is about 250 miles southeast of Hilo, moving at roughly 17 mph. The National Weather Service says it is expected to make landfall Thursday evening. Meanwhile, Hurricane Julio strengthened into a Category 2 storm but was forecast to pass just north of the islands sometime Sunday morning.
Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie says the state is prepared, noting the National Guard is at the ready and state and local governments are closing offices, schools and transit services across Hawaii.
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