UPDATE: The Big Island of Hawaii is bracing for a potentially dry rainy season, despite recent rainfall in East Hawaii. Forecasters warn that the anticipated wet season may not deliver as expected, raising concerns about ongoing drought conditions.
Just announced by the National Weather Service, Tina Stall cautions that current weak La Nina conditions may persist but are unlikely to bring significant rainfall across the island. “While we hope for above-normal rainfall, the prospects for the Big Island are dim,” Stall stated last week.
The situation is critical: currently, most of the island is under moderate drought or worse, with the exception of the Kona district. Hilo International Airport recorded 8.4 inches of rain in October, only 80% of its monthly average, but the five-month dry season from May to September yielded just 17.92 inches, or 41% of normal totals. As of the end of October, the airport has seen only 46.57 inches of rain this year, a striking 50% below the average of 93.93 inches.
In East Hawaii, Honokaa reported a meager 7.45 inches, just 25% of its normal rainfall, while the areas of Mountain View and Pahoa fared slightly better. Despite some recent rainfall, Stall warns that “the drought remains severe,” as long-term stream flows continue to drop.
Amid these conditions, the state has faced critical fire weather situations. Between October 22 and 24, strengthened trade winds prompted several Red Flag Warnings across the Big Island, indicating a heightened wildfire risk. Kazuo Todd, Chief of the Hawaii Fire Department, emphasized the department’s readiness: “We are staffing up and allocating additional resources to combat potential wildfires,” he said.
Compounding the issue, the Hamakua fire has burned approximately 500 acres near Kaala Road, and Todd noted that while flames are currently under control, the risk remains. “This year’s wildland fire season has been unusually active, with triple the normal fire activity,” he explained, attributing much of the increase to arson.
In contrast, the Kona and Kohala coastlines are experiencing a different reality. The Kona coffee belt reported above-average rainfall totals during the summer, with Waiaha receiving a remarkable 51.91 inches, more than double its norm. However, October saw a significant drop, raising concerns about the impact on local agriculture.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has indicated that while there may be a statewide expectation for above-normal rainfall through early spring, the outlook for the Big Island remains uncertain. “If the forecasts hold true, there is hope for drought improvement,” Stall remarked.
Residents and officials alike are anxiously watching the forecasts as Hawaii approaches the wet season. With ongoing drought conditions and the specter of wildfires, the Big Island faces a critical juncture. The community awaits further developments, hoping that predicted rains will finally provide relief.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
