**”Hawaii Experiences Extreme Weather Event: Storm Brings Flooding, High Winds, and Rare Snowfall at Summits”**
Hawaii is often associated with sunny skies and beautiful beaches, but the island chain also faces its fair share of dangerous weather conditions. Contrary to popular belief, some areas in Hawaii can experience heavy snowfall.
A powerful weather system known as a Kona storm is currently impacting Hawaii, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and the rare occurrence of snow at the summits of the Big Island. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, with predicted snowfall accumulations ranging from 10 to 15 inches. Additionally, high wind warnings are in effect for the summits, with wind gusts expected to exceed 85 mph.
In lower elevations, the heavy rainfall has led to flooding on parts of Kauai, Maui, and Oahu since Thursday. Reports of downed trees and power lines have been received by local emergency management on Kauai. Wind gusts reaching up to 120 mph have been recorded at the summit of Haleakala on Maui.
Travel to the summits of the Big Island may be challenging due to the severe weather conditions, with blowing snow potentially causing periods of zero visibility. The National Weather Service in Honolulu has cautioned residents about the difficult travel conditions and the risk of power outages.
The center of low pressure is expected to move north of Kauai by Friday, dragging a cold front across the islands. Along with the winter weather at higher elevations, heavy rain could lead to more flash flooding, and strong winds may result in additional power disruptions.
Though snowfall is not uncommon at the peaks of Hawaii, occurring several times a year between October and April, it can also happen at any time. In fact, a light dusting of snow was observed at Mauna Kea in July 2015.
Blizzard warnings have been issued for the summits in the past, highlighting the variability of weather conditions in the region. This demonstrates that all 50 states are capable of experiencing accumulating snow, with Florida being the most unexpected state for such occurrences. Notably, this year saw Winter Storm Enzo bringing record-breaking snowfall to the Sunshine State.
Sara Tonks, a meteorologist with weather.com, holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from Georgia Tech, as well as a master’s degree in Marine Science from Unity Environmental University.
