An Unusual Snowfall on Hawaii’s Volcanic Peaks: Understanding the Phenomenon

When people hear about a blizzard warning in Hawaii, it often sounds out of place. However, in the context of the Big Island’s and Maui’s volcanic peaks, recent snowfall is far from uncommon. This article will explore what happened, discuss the reasons behind this event, and provide insights into broader climate trends in the region.

When Will This Damn Global Warming Finally Be Over?

The phrase "When will this damn global warming finally be over!" is amusing and reflective of a common sentiment. Yet, in the peak areas of Hawaii, we see a different reality. Snowfall on these peaks, while rare, does occur, illustrating the complex nature of climate patterns and global warming perceptions.

Understanding the Volcanic Peaks of Hawaii

Hawaii is not typically associated with snowfall, but its volcanic peaks offer a unique contrast. Moana Loa and Moana Kea on the Big Island, and possibly Haleakala on Maui, are occasional hosts to snow, though it is rare.

Moana Loa and Moana Kea, both over 13,500 feet, are the highest volcanic peaks in Hawaii. Mauna Kea is especially known for its snow, located at a more favorable position for precipitation. However, the recent snowfall is confined to the mountain tops, with temperatures remaining balmy along the coastal areas of Hawaii.

Is This a Normal Atmospheric Event?

The blizzard warnings in the mountains are indeed part of normal atmospheric events. The observatories at the summit of Mauna Kea will be affected, causing road closures and temporary inactivity. This kind of weather is not unprecedented but highlights the diverse climate patterns present on the Hawaiian Islands.

The Broader Context: A Cooling Trend

The recent snowfall on Hawaii’s volcanic peaks is part of a larger cooling trend that began in 1998. This trend is acknowledged even by those who have long supported the idea of anthropogenic global warming (AGW). Some climate scientists now label it as the “Great Pause” and have started referring to it as “Apparent Global Cooling” (AGC).

According to solar physicists, we might be entering a new mini Ice Age. Similar phenomena have been observed globally, including snowfall in regions like the Sahara Desert and the Middle East. This indicates that the climate is more complex than simple global warming models suggest.

Conclusion

Despite the confounding effects of global warming perception, snowfall on Hawaii’s volcanic peaks is a natural and expected occurrence given the region’s unique geology and climate. The latest snowfall adds to the ongoing debate and highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of climate patterns.