Snow Possible for Big Island Summits

Feb. 22,, 7 a.m. NWS?NOAA image.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu forecasts strong thunderstorms over leeward and interior areas of the Big Island on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017, especially in Kona, Kohala and the Big Island’s interior and summits.

The latest data indicate that there is potential for strong thunderstorms to develop this afternoon over the leeward slopes and interior portions of the Big Island.

The primary threats with these thunderstorms will be dangerous cloud to surface lightning
strikes, locally gusty winds, small hail and very low visibility in areas of heavy rain.

At the higher elevations and summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, there is also the potential for briefly
heavy snow showers.

If you have outdoor plans on the Big Island this afternoon, be aware of the threat of strong thunderstorms, and stay alert for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Remember that if you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning.

When thunder roars, go indoors!