Does it snow in Hawaii? YES, it does snow in Hawaii.
However, the snow is experienced in places of high altitude (above 10000 feet).
The three highest volcanic summits in this sun-kissed state are Haleakala, Mauna Loa, and Mauna Kea.
Other regions, such as Hualalai, Pu’u Kukui, and Kaunu o Kaleihoohie, experience cold temperatures but no snowfall.
Hawaii is a state in the United States renowned for its many islands and tropical weather.
It continues to remain a mystery to people who are unfamiliar with, or have never visited, Hawaii whether it snows.
Within a few kilometers in Hawaii, the climate can change dramatically.
Mount Waialeale gets around 11684 mm of rain per year, while a few miles away receives less than 254 mm of rain per year.
This explains why only three parts of Hawaii experience snow.
During the winter (Hawaii’s rainy season), fog and mist replace snow on the islands and other regions with elevations of 9000 feet or less.
Snow falls only in three areas with elevations ranging from 10,000 to 13,000 feet.
In this blog post, I’ll answer in detail the question “does it snow in Hawaii?”
Does it Snow in Hawaii?
So, does it snow in Hawaii? The answer is YES.
While it’s unusual, it’s always thrilling to gaze up from a sunny beach and witness a dusting of snow on Hawaii’s highest volcanoes.
With the weather dynamics and the lack of prevalence of snow in Hawaii, it’s reasonable sense for people to question whether Hawaii gets snow.
When Does it Snow in Hawaii?
Snow accumulates on Hawaii’s three mountains at any time of year, but particularly in July, April, and October, and mostly during the wet season (the wet season is a part of winter and runs from December to February).
The winter season lasts between October and April.
During the winter, temperatures in the islands fall below 50°F (18°C), and the temperature at the mountain’s summit falls below freezing point.
Each year, the highest point of the mountains receives 2-8 inches (50.8—203.2mm) of snow, and they are occasionally struck by a snowstorm, making it dangerous for humans.
Places Where is there Snowfall in Hawaii
Snow does not fall in all areas of Hawaii, but it does fall on the highest mountains in the nation.
The summits, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, and Haleakala, have peaks of over 13,000, 13,000, and 10,000 feet, respectively.
They get snow every year, and it stays on the earth for a few days.
Snow is prevalent in the three volcanic mountains during the winter, but Mauna Kea receives snow on occasion during the dry season and summer.
Does it Snow in Haleakala
Haleakala, located on Maui Island, rises 10,000 feet tall and has not erupted in 400 years.
Visitors come to Haleakala, which means “house of the sun,” to experience sunrises and sunsets.
Haleakala, the lowest of Hawaii’s three volcanic mountains, gets less snow than Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.
It does, however, have a path leading to the mountain’s summit.
Does it Snow in Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is Hawaii’s and the world’s biggest snow mountain.
The active volcano’s dome is 75 miles long and 64 miles broad, giving it the literal translation “Long Mountain.”
It is approximately 13,600 feet above sea level.
It was rumored in early 2021 that it might be warming up after its most recent eruption in 1984, accounting for nearly half of Hawaii’s landmass.
This active volcano, as well as Captain Cook’s occupied area, are both within striking distance of Kailua-Kona’s major tourism center.
Does it Snow in Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s highest but inactive peak (almost 13,800 feet), is occasionally blanketed by snow even in July.
Locals refer to it as “White Mountain,” and its virtually constant temperature below freezing point renders it a favorite among expert skiers.
Its peak, on the other hand, is uninhabitable and dominates the alpine tundra and lava rock.
Mauna Kea’s typical winter temperature ranges between 25- and 40-degrees Fahrenheit.
During the summer, the temperature ranges between 30 and 60 degrees.
The Mauna Kea Observatory is located at 14,000 feet above sea level. However, clouds are said to develop above it only once a year.
Regardless of the snowcaps on these peaks, you could still have a good time in Hawaii.
You’re never more than a few steps away from a shore in this state, which ranks as the happiest and least-stressed in the United States.
Does Hawaii Get Snow? Skiing in Hawaii
Mauna Kea’s slopes have been a ski destination, but solely for pros, as they should be.
According to the Mauna Kea Ski Corporation, because Mauna Kea is a National Science Reserve, it is not managed as a ski area.
As per the Hawaii Ski Club, there are no lifts and only a road leading to the top.
A 4-wheel-drive vehicle is required if you are ascending to see the renowned observatories.
Final Thoughts on the Question: Does it Snow in Hawaii?
Does it snow in Hawaii? The answer is YES.
While most of the snow falls on the Big Island’s three volcanic mountains, there is some in other regions.
Whether you’re planning a short trip or relocating, Hawaii stays one of the top destinations.
You’d make moments worth recalling, from stunning views of lush forests to waterfalls cascading down the island’s mountainside.