Hilo, HI – A rare winter weather advisory is in effect for Hawaii’s Big Island summits, with snow expected to accumulate through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, the advisory began at noon Thursday and will remain in effect until 6 p.m. HST Friday. Forecasters expect total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches above 11,000 feet, affecting areas around Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
The upper-level trough driving the system is moving slowly across the islands, creating unstable atmospheric conditions. Visibility at high elevations could drop to near zero due to blowing snow, significantly impacting travel for summit workers, observatory staff, and any hikers or backcountry travelers in the area.
Travelers are urged to delay any non-essential summit travel, as snow-covered and slick roads could create hazardous conditions. Drivers should carry chains or traction control devices and use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
Snowfall of this magnitude in April is unusual, though not unprecedented, for Hawaii’s highest peaks. Officials remind the public to monitor local alerts and plan for extended impacts through Friday evening as the system exits the islands.
