The International Space Station cameras have captured views of the Hurricane Lane swirling in the Pacific Ocean.

The tropical cyclone is expected to track "dangerously" close to Hawaii’s islands, with residents bracing for “life threatening” weather conditions, including strong winds and flooding.

In preparation for the Category 4 storm, many residents have been stockpiling food, water and other supplies.

Schools have been closed and public sector jobs have been suspended.

After Donald Trump issued a presidential disaster declaration on Wednesday, Hawaii Governor David Ige tweeted: “Never seen such dramatic changes in forecast track as with Hurricane Lane. Urging residents to prepare for a significant impact."

The US National Weather Service has issued a hurricane warning for Hawaii's Big Island and a hurricane watch for Oahu, Maui, Molokai and Lanai.

It also said the storm could bring “damaging winds and life-threatening flash flooding”.