The National Weather Service (NWS), on Friday, has issued an “urgent” rare blizzard warning ahead of a massive storm hitting the Big Island of Hawaii, which generally has a tropical climate.
“Blizzard warning for the Big Island summits,” reads the weather advisory. “Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility at times, with periods of zero visibility.”
The warning remains in place from 6 p.m. Friday, local time, to 6 a.m. Sunday. In addition, a warning of high-wind has also been put into effect.
Winds are expected to gust over 100 mph, and total accumulations of snow may be up to an entire foot “or more.” Additionally, the Weather Service also revealed that the strong winds “will likely cause significant drifting of snow.”
As a result, the NWS advises that travel should be restricted to emergencies. “If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle,” NWS further warns.
With the incoming storm, Honolulu can expect a potential six to twelve inches of rain, and up to forty inches are considered possible in the south- and southwest-facing mountainsides of the islands.
The Weather Service has also issued flood watches for “all of the islands” of Hawaii. They will likely remain in place till Monday, the outlet added.
The last time a blizzard warning was issued for the state was in spring 2018.
