Mauna Kea, Hawaii – Extreme winds strong enough to rival a hurricane could create blizzard conditions on the highest peaks of Hawaii’s Big Island through Saturday evening, making travel nearly impossible above 12,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. Saturday for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
Forecasters expect 12 to 18 inches of snow across the summit areas while powerful winds may gust up to 110 mph. These conditions could produce whiteout visibility and severe blowing snow, particularly near the summit access roads and observatory areas.
The dangerous weather is being driven by a powerful kona low northwest of the Hawaiian Islands, which is sending cold air and unstable weather over the highest elevations of the Big Island.
Officials warn that travel to the summit areas could become very difficult or impossible, with periods of zero visibility possible during heavier snow and wind bursts.
Anyone planning travel to the summit region is strongly urged to postpone trips until conditions improve. The warning remains active through Saturday evening, when winds and snowfall are expected to gradually decrease.
