Hurricane Karina has strengthened into a Category 4 storm in the Pacific Ocean, forecasters announced. The storm is not currently a threat to land.
Karina's intensification marks a significant development in the Pacific basin. Category 4 hurricanes are characterized by sustained winds of 130-156 mph and can cause catastrophic damage if they make landfall. However, its current location far from any landmasses mitigates immediate concerns for coastal communities.