Hawaii's Big Island Under Winter Storm Warning with Snow and Flooding

Winter Storm Warning on the Big Island

• ⚠️ A winter storm warning is in effect for the Big Island of Hawaii, with the summit expected to receive up to 10 inches of snow.
• ❄️ Dangerous icy conditions are anticipated at elevations above 11,000 feet, with winds reaching up to 60 mph.
• 🌊 The storm system has also brought widespread flooding, high surf, and powerful winds across the Hawaiian islands.

Unusual Weather Conditions

• 💡 While snow on Hawaii's summits occurs a couple of times a year, a winter storm warning and flooding happening simultaneously is notable.
• 🗺️ The combination of flood watches (in green) and winter storm warnings (in pink) is rare, typically seen in areas like the Pacific Northwest or parts of California.

Radar Limitations and Outlook

• 📡 The weather service radar at the surface cannot detect snow falling at the summit, meaning the actual snowfall could be higher than indicated.
• 💨 Fortunately, the severe weather is expected to move out fairly soon.
• ☁️ A different weather system is headed towards other areas by the middle of the week.