Comments
Saturday, March 14, 2026 - 09:15 p.m.
Good evening,
The access road to the summit of Maunakea remains CLOSED to the public above the Visitor Information Station at the 9,200 foot elevation due to winter weather conditions, and high winds in excess of 100 MPH.
The National Weather Service has issued the following Watch and Warnings for the Big Island and its summits:
Flood Watch through late Sunday night.
High Wind Warning until 6 PM Sunday.
Winter Storm Warning until 6 AM Monday.
The Rangers are monitoring the summit weather conditions throughout this time of extreme weather with periodic updates to follow.
Visit the Visitor Information website for more information:
https://hilo.hawaii.edu/maunakea/visitor-information/
Mahalo and stay safe,
Maunakea Rangers
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More Information: Maunakea weather varies widely. A calm sunny day may quickly become treacherous with hurricane force winds and blizzard conditions. Summit winds above 120 mph are not uncommon. Snowstorms have even occurred during the summer months.
When conditions are too dangerous, the Summit Access Road will be closed to the public at the Visitor Information Station to ensure everyone's safety. The road will reopen as soon as the weather and road conditions are safe.
Traffic delays and road closures on the summit access road may also occur due to the use and transport of heavy equipment, slow vehicle movements, deliveries, road maintenance, stalled or abandoned vehicles, hikers and bikers. Remember that dust, fog or snow can reduce visibility and slow traffic. Specific road closure criteria is listed below:
 1. Any ice or snow on the road.
2. Winds greater than 55 mph for one hour and/or gusts greater than 65 mph.
3. Visibility less than 50 feet.
4. Any emergent condition that makes the road unsafe for travel.
Visitors to the summit are required to stop at the Visitor Information Station, at an elevation of 9,200 feet to acclimate to the altitude and read about the hazards. All visitors are advised that 4-wheel drive vehicles are required, they should be in good health and at least 13 years of age. For safety reasons, those with medical conditions such as asthma, heart conditions/problems, pregnancy or scuba diving within the last 24 hours, may not be permitted access beyond the Visitor Information Station. Animals, aerial drones, alcoholic beverages and open fires are not allowed. All vehicles attempting access should be clean to prevent the spread of invasive species on the mountain. Muddy vehicles will be turned away. Call 934-4550 for a recorded message about Visitor Information Station programs. If you are coming to the mountain today, please be sure to fuel and service your vehicle before you leave town.
Mahalo for your understanding.
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| Public road conditions and snow report message: (808) 935-6268 |
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