Hurricane Lowell live: Hawaii declares state of emergency after El Nino fuels Cat 4 storm

Hawaii has declared a state of emergency over the weekend as powerful Hurricane Lowell approaches the islands, with two other tropical systems also being monitored in the Pacific.

Governor Josh Green’s emergency proclamation covers Hurricane Lowell, Hurricane Karina, Tropical Storm Marie and any additional storms that could affect Hawaii.

The declaration allows state and county agencies to rapidly mobilise personnel, equipment and money, while also allowing the Hawaii National Guard to be activated if needed.

Six high-water vehicles have already been sent to Kauai, which is considered the area at greatest risk from Lowell.

The proclamation does not mean evacuations have been ordered. There is currently no statewide curfew, school closure or evacuation order as a result of the declaration.

Hurricane Lowell remains the main concern. Depending on its eventual track, Kauai and Niihau could experience dangerous winds, storm surge, heavy rainfall and life-threatening surf.

Hurricane Karina is also moving across the central Pacific but is expected to pass north of Hawaii and weaken.

Tropical Storm Marie is further away and is not currently expected to directly threaten the islands.

Officials are nevertheless preparing for an unusually active period of weather, with heavy rain and dangerous surf possible across much of Hawaii.