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Haleakala National ParkClouds rapidly covering the summit of the mountain.
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Haleakala National Park
Weather

Ever-changing and unpredictable
In any given day the temperatures in the park can range from a high of 80°F (27°C) in Kipahulu to a low of 30°F (-1°C) at the summit. In either area clouds and rain can quickly replace warm sunshine.

 

Summit Area - Mountain
and Wilderness Area - Mountain

Weather in the high-elevation areas of the park is highly unpredictable and changes often. Cool temperatures, intense solar radiation, and rapidly moving clouds are characteristic. On average, the temperature drops about 3°F for every 1,000 foot rise in elevation (or approximately 5°C for every 1,000 meter elevation rise), making the 10,023 foot (3055m) summit of Haleakala about 30°F (or 17°C) cooler than the coast. Year-round summit temperatures range between below freezing to highs of 50°-65°F (10-18°C). The outside temperatures can feel much colder because of wind chill and damp, overcast conditions.

A generalized weather forecast from NOAA is available. However, local conditions can change radically in a matter of minutes.

NOAA Forecast for Summit of Haleakala.

 

Coastal Area – Kipahulu
In contrast to the summit, the weather in the Kipahulu area of the park is milder and wetter. Located on the windward (eastern) coast of the island, Kipahulu receives an average of 187 inches (475cm) of rain each year. The proximity of the ocean and the trade winds moderate the temperature and keep it at a daytime average of 70°-80°F (21-27°C) year round. Nighttime lows average 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Flash floods are a serious hazard in Kipahulu, so make sure to check at the Visitor Center before entering the streams or pools.

NOAA Forecast for Kipahulu and Coastal Haleakala

Did You Know?  

Did You Know?
Haleakala National Park was established in 1916 as park of Hawaii National Park - within one week of the creation of the National Park Service.

Last Updated: March 22, 2007 at 18:46 EST