Weather and Climate

Despite the warm and sunny reputation of Hawaiʻi, at the 4,000-foot elevation on Kīlauea rain and fog are frequent. Chilly temperatures can occur any time of the year. Mists may obscure views at any time.

Temperature varies by elevation. At the Kīlauea summit, temperatures may be 12 to 15 degrees cooler than at sea level. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy. At the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Mauna Loa, winter temperatures and snow are a possibility during any season.

 
 
Kīlauea Visitor Center Parking Lot During Extremely Heavy Rain
Kīlauea Visitor Center Parking Lot During Extremely Heavy Rain

NPS Photo/Andrea Kaawaloa

Last updated: December 19, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 52
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718

Phone:

808 985-6011

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