Major Hurricane Karina 2026

Live tracking map, satellite, radar, and forecasts of Major Hurricane Karina 2026 in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Current wind speed 140mph. Max 145mph.

The infrared satellite presentation for Karina has improved over the last several hours as the cloud tops have cooled down to around -70°C. Based on the presentation from the infrared and analysis from the SHIP guidance, Karina has developed annular characteristics. However, the eye still remains cloud filled at this time. The current satellite intensity estimates range from 114 to 150 mph (129 knots). Therefore, the initial intensity for this advisory has been brought up to 140 mph (120 knots).

The major hurricane is moving westward at about 10 mph (9 knots). A general slow westward to west-northwestward motion is expected during the next 3 to 4 days as a narrow mid-level ridge remains situated to the north of the hurricane. During the weekend, a turn to the northwest seems likely as the ridge shifts eastward and the cyclone approaches a mid- to upper-level low north of Hawaii. The current NHC forecast track is very similiar to the previous one with only small adjustments in speed and is slightly to the right of the previous track. The current official forecast track continues to keep the hurricane to the north of the Hawaiian Islands.

In the short term, the hurricane has the opportunity to intensify a bit, however, in the long run, the environment will become less favorable for Karina due to cooler ocean waters and decreasing relative humidity. With Karina developing annular characteristics the rate of weakening is expected to be slower at first. The current NHC intensity forecast shows a bit of strengthening within the first 12 hours, and then a gradual weakening for 24 to 60 hours. Past 60 hours, the rate of weakening should increase as the low- to mid-level relative humidity drops below 40%.