MIAMI: Hurricane Madeline has grown to a dangerous ‘Category Four’ storm as it heads toward Hawaii, US weather officials said on Tuesday – furthermore warns of flash floods and mudslides from the hurricane’s lashing winds and rain. The storm – packing maximum sustained winds of 130 miles per hour is expected to pass near Hawaii’s Big Island on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Madeline threatens to disrupt a planned visit by President Barack Obama and other dignitaries to Hawaii for the World Conservation Congress – a major meeting of thousands of delegates including heads of state, scientists and policy makers. The massive storm was about 490 miles east of Hawaii, strolling at nine miles per hour toward the west. “On the forecast track, the centre of Madeline will pass dangerously close to the Big Island on Wednesday,” the NHC said and added, “Some weakening is forecast through early Thursday.” The US weather agency said swells generated by Madeline are expected to reach the Hawaiian Islands over the next couple of days, including some strong enough to damage the coastline. Madeline is expected to dump five to 10 inches of rain on Hawaii – with some areas receiving up to 15 inches. The World Conservation Congress is set to take place in Hawaii from Thursday to next Saturday. Obama is scheduled to address the gathering on its opening day.