Winter Storm System Heading to Hawaiʻi: What Travelers Need To Know

Hawaiʻi is bracing for a low-pressure system that will bring strong winds and flooding today through Friday.

High-wind warnings are already in effect until noon Friday, with southwest winds reaching up to 50 mph with gusts peaking at 90 mph are expected, according to the National Weather Service.

There might be snow and ice on Hawaiʻi Island summits. A Winter Storm Watch is in place for Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa through Friday.

So what does that mean for travelers to the Islands?

• Haleakalā National Park will be closed at noon Thursday. Kīpahulu and Summit districts including all hiking trails, camping and access to Haleakalā Crater will be closed through at least noon Friday. Heavy rain, flooding and winds up to 80 mph are expected.
• Honolulu Zoo in Waikīkī closed Thursday morning due to the heavy rains, which resulted in flooded walkways. The zoo is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day.
• Numerous city parks are already closed to the public, including the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden, Wahiawā Botanical Garden, Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Patsy T. Mink Central Oʻahu Regional Park and Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park.
• Flood watches are in effect across the state through Friday afternoon. Avoid hiking, especially ones that cross streams. Be careful driving and avoid flooded roads.
• Check beach and ocean conditions before heading out. High winds may bring big, choppy, often dangerous surf. Consult the lifeguards on duty and refer to hawaiibeachsafety.com for the most up-to-date information. If in doubt, don’t go out.
• Be aware of brown water advisories; brown water tends to follow heavy rains and is discolored or murky and often contaminated with bacteria, debris, sediment and sewage. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health advises staying out of the water at least 48 to 72 hours after the rain has stopped and after the beach has received full sun. If the water is brown, turn around.
• If you have reservations for a land or ocean activity, contact your provider to inquire about any cancellations due to the weather.

Be safe and stay dry!