Hilo, Hawaii – Travel to the Big Island summits will become nearly impossible by 6 p.m. Saturday as a powerful Kona storm drives heavy snow and 70 mph wind gusts into elevations above 12,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through 6 p.m. Sunday, with up to 10 inches of snow expected across Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits. Wind gusts could reach 70 mph, creating blowing snow and periods of zero visibility.
Access roads, including the Mauna Kea Access Road, may become impassable within hours of snowfall onset. Officials warn that whiteout conditions could fully shut down visibility, especially overnight into early Sunday morning. Emergency crews may not be able to respond in these პირობ due to extreme winds and drifting snow.
Anyone planning travel to summit areas should cancel plans immediately. Officials urge residents and visitors to avoid non-essential travel, secure loose outdoor items, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions. Even after snowfall tapers late Sunday, light snow and icy conditions may linger into early Monday.
Warnings remain in effect through Sunday evening, and additional advisories could be issued as the storm evolves.
