Winter weather advisory in effect above 12K feet for summits of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa

An upper-level disturbance and cold air aloft is expected to bring freezing drizzle and light snowfall today (Feb. 21) to areas above 12,000 feet on the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island.

That wintry weather could make travel very difficult, and blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility at times, with periods of zero visibility.

Because of the possibility of hazardous winter conditions, National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu issued a winter weather advisory now in effect until 6 p.m. today for the summits above the 12,000-foot level.

A winter weather advisory means periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties.

Forecasters in Honolulu say snow and freezing drizzle, with up to 2 inches of new snowfall along with a wintry mix of icing possible today.

Combined with times of blowing snow — significantly reducing visibility at times, including likely periods of zero visibility — the winter weather conditions will make travel very difficult.

The public should be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibilities, using extreme caution if they must travel to either summit.