Santa likely to see snowcapped summits

Hawaii Island mountain summits could still be white-tipped for Christmas thanks to several inches of snow accumulation predicted to stick around — in some amount — for another week or two.

Ryan Lyman, forecast meteorologist with the Maunakea Weather Center, said in an email Friday he suspects “about a foot” of snow fell over mountain summits this week, though it’s difficult to gauge the exact amount via summit sensors.

An upper-level trough, coupled with abundant moisture ahead of a front, made their way over the state this week, bringing heavy rain to Hawaii Island and winter weather conditions to the summits of Maunakea and Mauna Loa.

A total of 4.67 inches of rain registered at the Hilo International Airport rain gauge between Wednesday and Thursday morning alone, more than anywhere else on the island.

Pahoa recorded 3.03 inches in that time frame, Waiakea Uka received 1.56 inches and Saddle Quarry, 2.48 inches.

Maunakea Access Road remained closed to the public above the visitor information station Friday afternoon. The summit of Mauna Loa also remained closed Friday because of “continued high wind conditions.”

Lyman said the access road will reopen contingent on the clearing process by Maunakea Support Services. He said that process can be hindered if wind conditions pick up which were forecast Friday afternoon to be “moderate to strong.” A wind advisory remains in effect through 6 a.m. this morning.

Summit temperatures are expected to remain near freezing through tomorrow and then increase toward 35 to 40 degrees, Lyman said, adding there’s “zero” chance for more snow this weekend, though it’s possible summits could get a light dusting Tuesday or Wednesday.

“The snow should be around for another week or two, though that will depend on future conditions,” he said.

Residents heading to the summit once the road reopens are advised to dress appropriately and use four-wheel drive vehicles.

Email Kirsten Johnson at kjohnson@hawaiitribune-herald.com.