Winter storm watch issued for Big Island summits

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The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a winter storm watch for Big Island summits through Thursday afternoon. Up to 3 inches of snow is forecast to fall.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a winter storm watch for Big Island summits through Thursday afternoon. Up to 3 inches of snow is forecast to fall.

Deep moisture is expected to move over the Big Island from the east and southeast and combine with an upper level trough to bring the threat of widespread winter weather, according to forecasters.

The service forecast southwest winds of 40 to 60 mph with localized gusts reaching 70 mph. Temperatures are expected to be in the 20s and 30s.

The Mauna Kea Access Road was closed as of Tuesday afternoon. Visit the Mauna Kea Weather Center’s road conditions page for the most recent information.

A winter storm watch means there is potential for significant snow, sleet or ice accumulations that may impact travel. The service cautioned that visibility may be significantly reduced at times.