Snow Falls on Hawaii’s Big Island as Winter Storm Warnings Hit Mauna Kea’s Highest Elevations
HAWAII – Snow is falling in Hawaii as Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for the highest elevations of the Big Island, where cold temperatures and strong winds are producing wintry conditions at extreme altitudes. The snowfall is focused around Mauna Kea, one of the tallest mountains on Earth when measured from base to summit, rising over 13,000 feet above sea level.
Snow Confirmed at Mauna Kea Weather Center
Images from the Mauna Kea Weather Center show active snowfall, blowing snow, and snow-covered infrastructure near the summit. Observatory buildings and access areas are blanketed in white as crews work to clear accumulating snow amid low visibility and harsh conditions.
While snow in Hawaii may sound unusual, snowfall at this elevation is not rare, especially during winter storms that push colder air across the island’s highest peaks.
Winter Storm Warnings Limited to High Elevations
The current Winter Storm Warnings apply only to the upper elevations of the Big Island, not to lower coastal or populated areas. The warning highlights the risk of snow accumulation, icy conditions, and hazardous travel near the summit region. At these elevations, temperatures can fall well below freezing even while lower parts of the island experience mild or warm weather.
Why Snow Can Happen in Hawaii
Mauna Kea’s extreme elevation allows it to rise into much colder layers of the atmosphere, making snowfall possible during strong winter systems. The combination of moisture, wind, and cold air creates conditions more similar to a high alpine environment than a tropical island. Though uncommon for most of Hawaii, snowfall at Mauna Kea is a known winter phenomenon, especially during active storm patterns.
A Rare but Fascinating Weather Contrast
The event serves as a reminder of Hawaii’s dramatic elevation contrasts, where tropical beaches and snow-covered summits can exist on the same island at the same time.
NapervilleLocal.com will continue to monitor notable national weather events and provide clear, data-driven updates as conditions evolve.
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