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Winter storm warning for Big Island summits


Time-lapse movie of Mauna Loa. This panorama is a composite of a five images from a temporary research camera positioned on the north rim of Mokuʻāweoweo, the summit caldera of Mauna Loa volcano. If you look carefully around early morning or late evening, you may see a few thermal areas emitting steam. Images courtesy of USGS

By Hawaii 24/7 Staff

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a winter storm warning for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa until 6 a.m. Wednesday (Feb 22) for elevations above 8,000 feet. A winter storm warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet and ice are expected or is occuring. Strong winds are also possible.

Sleet, snow and freezing rain will make for hazardous conditions for drivers and hikers. An additional three to four inches of snowfall is expected this afternoon and evening.

As of 12:24 p.m. Tuesday (Feb 21) Mauna Kea Summit Access Road is closed at the Visitor Information Station due to ice and snow on roadways. Mauna Kea Rangers report that it is doubtful the road will be open today due to poor weather.

A wind advisory is also in effect for Big Island summits over 8,000 feet until 6 a.m. Wednesday (Feb 22).

Currently winds are 20-30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Winds this strong can bring down tree branches and make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

For current information on Mauna Kea Access Road conditions – mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/current/road-conditions

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