Winter Storm Watch Issued for Hawaii's High Peaks Amid Freezing Rain and Snow Forecast

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Honolulu issued a winter storm watch on Tuesday for the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii's Big Island. The watch targets areas above 12,500 feet and will remain in effect from Wednesday morning through Friday afternoon. It warns of freezing rain, ice accumulation, and snowfall that could affect travel to the summits.

Meteorologists expect up to 3 inches of snow and a quarter-inch of ice accumulation, with winds gusting as high as 55 mph. These conditions may make roads slick and reduce visibility. Snowfall could build on existing ice, complicating access further.

An upper-level low is enhancing moisture over the Big Island, leading to heavy rain at lower elevations and wintry conditions at higher ones.

This system marks the third major storm in about three weeks and is expected to develop northwest of the state before tracking eastward. It draws deep tropical moisture, similar to recent Kona storms that caused flooding and evacuations. A flood watch has been issued for lower elevations due to risks of flash flooding from increased rainfall.

NWS meteorologist Maureen Ballard stated that flooding at lower elevations represents the primary concern. Saturated ground from prior storms could exacerbate runoff.

and ice occur at Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa elevations during strong upper-level disturbances, despite Hawaii's tropical climate.

Prolonged freezing rain adds risks by coating roadways, equipment, and infrastructure. Earlier this week, over 1 million residents were advised to review emergency plans and stock food and water ahead of the storm system. The state faces ongoing effects from an active spring weather pattern.

Colder air in the system supports wintry conditions at the summits while promoting heavy rain below. NWS recommends that hikers, campers, and tour operators monitor forecasts and postpone Big Island summit trips until conditions improve.

A winter storm watch indicates conditions favorable for heavy snow, sleet, or ice, issued 24 to 48 hours in advance when details remain uncertain.

It signals possible hazardous weather but not imminent impacts. A winter storm warning, by contrast, denotes high confidence in an occurring or approaching storm, typically issued within 24 hours, urging immediate precautions and travel avoidance.