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Kona Low Weakens as NWS Downgrades Hawaii Summit Snow Alerts

Timelapse video and on-site reports show deep snow and ice on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with summit roads still closed as conditions slowly improve.

Overview

  • By January 7, the system had drifted west and the National Weather Service reduced winter storm warnings to a winter weather advisory for elevations above about 11,000 feet.
  • USGS timelapse imagery documented accumulating snow on Mauna Loa, and video from Mauna Kea showed whiteout driving conditions, though no official snowfall measurements were taken.
  • NWS Honolulu meteorologist Will Ahue estimated roughly 2 to 3 feet of snow on the highest peaks, with significant rime icing on summit roadways.
  • Earlier in the event, a statewide Flood Watch accompanied moderate to heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms, and a high surf advisory targeted east-facing shores.
  • Sustained summit winds near 50–60 mph with gusts up to 75 mph, combined with ice and fog, kept observatory access restricted and the road above the visitor center closed.