Gov. Linda Lingle has declared a state of emergency in advance of the tsunami expected to hit Hawaii shores, starting with Hilo Harbor at 11:04 a.m.

Lingle told reporters this morning she signed the statewide emergency proclamation earlier this morning. It will last until March 1.

Lingle is directing all government agencies to take action for law and order, medical services, fire and rescue. Also emergency housing, transportation and water and other emergency functions,

Lingle is standing by to take a one-hour National Guard helicopter flight from the state civil defense headquarters to Diamond Head to Hilo this morning. The guard helicopter will also pick up Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi.