About
Hawaii is the northern most island group in Polynesia, occupying an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. Itâs the only US state made up entirely of islands, and its pristine beaches, stunning scenery, and pleasant weather has long put Hawaii on the map as hugely popular holiday destination.
Hawaii, comprising 8 major islands, is famous for its hike-worthy sculpted hills, fascinating coral reefs and fiery volcanoes. Out of these eight islands, only six are open to tourism with each island featuring its own distinct personality. There are so many things to do - from whale watching, mountain climbing, kayaking and diving; to visiting Hawaiiâs many heritage sites â" visitors to are well and truly spoilt for choice.
Climate
Hawaii enjoys a warm tropical climate and is the only other state apart from Arizona in the US not to observe daylight savings. The moment you step out of the plane, you will feel soft and humid winds, especially during summer, when a pleasant breeze is always present. Due to trade winds originating from the East, Hawaiiâs temperature and humidity arenât as extreme as most tropical countries. Mid-day temperatures are around 31 °C and it drops down to about 25 °C at night.
Snow can only be found in the highest mountains on Kea and Mauna Loa located on the Big Island during some winter months. Generally, Hawaii has only two different seasons: the dry seasons from May to October and the rainy season occurring from October throughout April. However, the weather can be very different between each island. If it is sunny in Honolulu, itâs likely raining in Manoa Valley.
Rain normally tends to hit the north and east sides of the islands, whereas the south and west sides receive fewer rainy days. High season in Hawaii is from December to January. Another thing tourists should be wary about, apart from volcanic eruptions, is the hurricane season when tropical cyclones can cause major destruction on the islands.
Dry season
From May to October, temperatures are pretty dry and humid. As Hawaii is located near the equator, sun exposure is high, therefore sunscreen is advised for those new to the island or new to tropical climates. Hawaii receives at least 12 hours of sunlight during its summer months and the highest temperature ever recorded was at 30°C.
Wet season
Also known as Hawaiiâs winter, as it is generally colder - or at least a little more wet than usual. February to March has been recorded as Hawaiiâs most cold months with temperatures dropping to 20°C. The top of the volcanoes are often covered in snow during winter months; useful to know if you plan on climbing. Descending to the beaches will bring back warm and sunny weather. As well as sunscreen, visitors are advised to bring long sleeved clothing and long trousers.
Sea water temperature
The sea is generally warm and comfortable to swim in throughout the year, except during hurricanes and very heavy rain. On average, sea water temperatures are 23°C, and can go up to 26°C in the hotter months. Hawaii tends to get legendary huge waves during its colder months when the Pacific storms drive ocean swells towards the islands, making it a perfect destination for surfers and extreme sport aficionados.
Volcanic mountains
Hawaii is renowned for its natural beauty. The higher you climb Hawaiiâs mountains - such as Kokee or Haleakala - the temperatures gradually drop every 1000ft. At this point in time, there are three active volcanoes in Hawaii. Visitors can time their visit to Hawaii to witness a volcanic eruption from a safe distance. Hawaii Kilauea Eruption regularly updates its website for latest eruptions.
Natural disasters
Though a beautiful island, Hawaii is also prone to natural disasters. In October 2004, a flash flood occurred in Manoa Valley soaking the grounds of the University of Hawaii, and in March 2006, major flash floods occurred after more than 30 days of non-stop rain.
Hurricanes are also devastating natural disasters, with the two biggest hurricanes of Iwa and Iniki hitting the islands of Hawaii. In 1992, the eye of the hurricane Iniki passed through Kauai on September 11, 1992 causing a total of six deaths and $1.8 billion US dollars in damages.
Due to Hawaiiâs location on the Ring of Fire, there are several volcanic eruptions on the island, especially from still active volcano Kilauea on Hawaiiâs Big Island. Eruptions have occurred from 1983 to 1993, destroying 200 homes and flooding coastal highways in its wake. Volcanic eruptions are regularly studied and monitored, hence early warning, and evacuation can be given to residents as well as visiting tourists to move to safer ground or take preventive measures to avoid injury or death.
Hawaii is located on an active tectonic plate making it also prone to earthquakes. The most destructive of all was on April 2, 1868 killing 81 people. Though earthquakes are quite common but relatively small, they can still prove deadly. The most recent earthquake to hit Hawaii was in October, 2006 with a magnitude of 6.7 on the Richter scale.
Despite these numerous natural disasters, the government of Hawaii has established several precautionary measures and has elevated safety protocols and systems to safeguard its people and visitors from natural disasters. Early warning systems are in place, should a hurricane or tsunami happen, and safety protocols have been taught to all residents of Hawaii on how to survive earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.