Winter weather advisory remains in effect for Big Island summits

Subscribe Now Choose a package that suits your preferences.
Start Free Account Get access to 7 premium stories every month for FREE!
Already a Subscriber? Current print subscriber? Activate your complimentary Digital account.

A winter weather advisory remains in effect for the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits above the 12,000-foot elevation until noon Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

The service forecast less than 1/4 inch of additional snow to fall by noon Tuesday. Forecasters cautioned that snow and freezing fog have left the summit road icy.

Forecasters are calling for southeast winds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts over 30 mph. Temperatures are expected to be in the lower 30s. By Tuesday afternoon, temperatures are forecast to be in the lower 40s.

The Mauna Kea Access Road was closed as of 5:30 a.m. Tuesday.

A winter weather advisory means that periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain will cause travel difficulties, according to the service, which cautioned drivers to be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibility. Visibility may be reduced to 5 miles, forecasters warned.