Winter storm warning for Big Island summits

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Time-lapse movie via Mauna Kea summit webcams

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Winter storm warning for Big Island summits until noon Wednesday (Jan 29).

Heavy snow is forecast with six inches of addition snowfall by noon. The heavy snow and drifts will make for dangerous driving and hiking conditions.

There is also a wind advisory in effect for the summits and Daniel K. Inouye Highway (aka Saddle Road) above 5,000 feet.

Winds are forecast to be easterly 15-30 mph with localized gusts over 50 mph.

The strong winds can make driving difficult especially for high profile vehicles. Motorists should use caution while driving. The winds can also forcefully swing doors open or shut so use caution when opening or closing vehicle doors.

The road to the summit was closed due to weather conditions. For updated information on summit road conditions visit: http://mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/current/road-conditions/

On Tuesday (Jan 28) in Hilo a record rainfall of 2.77 inches was set breaking the old record of 1.39 inches set in 1988 for the date.