Hawaii summits could get more than 2 feet of snow

The summits of Hawaii’s Big Island could get more than two feet of snow through the weekend. Meteorologists say that’s a significant amount but not uncommon. Mauna Kea Weather Center Forecast Meteorologist Ryan Lyman says people outside of Hawaii are surprised to hear about snow falling on the island state.

He explains to them the Big Island has very high mountains. Mauna Kea is nearly 14,000 feet above sea level. National Weather Service Meteorologist Matthew Foster says the snow falls in a small, remote area where there are mainly telescopes and scientists operating them. While a winter storm warning is in effect, workers have must descend from the mountain. Lyman says Mauna Kea’s access road is expected to remain closed until next week.