A winter storm warning is in effect for the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits through 6 a.m. Thursday.
National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu say up to 10 to 15 inches of snow could fall above the 12,000-foot elevation of both Big Island mountains. The service also expects southwest winds around 15 to 25 mph. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 20s.
Because of the snowfall, forecasters warned that travel to the summit either on foot or by vehicle will be dangerous. The public is advised to postpone travel to the areas until conditions improve.
The Mauna Kea Weather Center reported the access road to the summit was closed as of 5 a.m. Wednesday because of snow and ice. The center added it was unsure of when the road might reopen because the winter weather is forecast to continue for several days.