Via West Hawaii Today
A blizzard warning has been issued for the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea summits above 11,000 feet in elevation through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu. Up to a 8 inches of snow is forecast to fall Wednesday.
A sharp upper trough to the west of the Big Island will continue to draw deep moisture over the summits Wednesday leading to periods of heavy snow and low visibility. Winds are already increasing and are expected to continue that trend throughout Wednesday.
The service forecast south winds around 45 to 65 mph with gusts topping 90 mph.
Temperatures at the summit are expected to be in the upper 30s on Wednessday. Visibility during snow showers could near as low as a quarter-mile.
The Mauna Kea Weather Center on Wednesday morning reported the summit road was closed because of pathy ice and snow.
A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibility can be expected that may lead to whiteout conditions that can make travel very dangerous. The service cautioned that conditions may be extremely hazardous and potentially life threatening and urged people to avoid travel to the area. If people must travel, the service advises having a survival kit and to stay within a vehicle should someone become stranded.
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