Weather & Climate

Up on the Volcanoes

Many visitors are drawn to the natural beauty found at higher elevations on Hawaii Island, such as on Kilauea, Maunaloa or Maunakea volcanoes. That’s fine if you come prepared. Bring long pants and several layers of cool weather clothing because the temperature in the higher locations drops 3.5 degrees for every 1,000 feet above sea level. And if the sun suddenly goes behind the clouds and rain begins to fall, the drop in temperature can be sudden.

Also, at higher elevations there is less protection from the sun’s powerful rays, even though the cool air masks the burning effect. So be sure to use sun block liberally, and bring a hat, sunglasses and water.