Snow fell on Hawaii’s tallest peak, Mauna Kea, this week, with about 2 inches of white powder accumulating at the summit. The mountain, standing at 13,803 feet above sea level, experiences freezing temperatures year-round due to its high elevation, making snow possible at any time. The recent snowfall was the result of an upper level disturbance bringing colder temperatures and moisture from the east over the islands. Webcams showed the snowy landscape, which had melted away within two days.
Mauna Kea holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians, with stories depicting it as the first-born son of the sky father and earth mother. The summit is also home to about a dozen telescopes, taking advantage of the limited light pollution and dry atmosphere for world-class astronomical observations. These telescopes have contributed to significant discoveries and the imaging of exoplanets. Despite its scientific importance, Mauna Kea remains a sacred site for the local community.
While Hawaii is more commonly associated with warm weather, beaches, and rainforests, Mauna Kea serves as a unique winter wonderland at its higher elevations. Snowfall on the mountain is not an uncommon occurrence during the wetter, winter months. This surprising contrast between Hawaii’s tropical climate and the snowy peak of Mauna Kea highlights the diverse natural beauty of the islands.
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