About Hawaii Weather

The weather in Hawaii is one of the biggest draws to the state. Even during the winter months the temperature is in the 80's. The ocean temperature around the islands is in the 70's all year long - perfect for swimming, even in December. Trade winds ensure that it is never so hot that you have to stay inside or bake. In fact, the highest temperature ever recorded in the Hawaiian Islands was 100 degrees Farenheit.

Storms
Lightning and thunder storms are very rare in Hawaii but we do get them occasionally. Tropical depressions and tropical storms sometimes bring wind and rain and some damage, but don't often bother visitors. Hurricane season is June through November, and Hurricanes do head our way but rarely touch the islands. The last major one, Hurricane Iniki, struck the islands on September 11th 1992 and wreaked havoc for visitors and residents.

Rain
Good old, ordinary rain can be quite a nuisance for tourists. There are some times when the rainy side of an island can see nothing but rain for two weeks, and this would be horrible for a vacation. The good news is that almost always a drive to the other side of the island finds sun. Another choice would be just to stay in a dry area of the island - for example, the parts of the Kohala Coast area of the Big Island get less than 10 inches of rain a year.

If you are concerned about rain on your Hawaii trip, check your destination city at World Climate. Hilo would be an example of a wet hawaiian city at 135 inches of rain a year, while Waikiki would be an example of a dry hawaiian city at 23 inches of rain a year.

Where to Find Current Weather Information / Forecasts / Radar for the Islands

University of Hawaii Meteorology
Quick viewing of satellite images and links to weather discussions and forecasts, plus warnings and watches.

Quick Weather
Quick forecasts at wunderground.com

Hawaii Weather Today
Detailed weather narrative and commentary.