January 13, 2005

The White Mountain

Mauna Kea or "White Mountain", covered with snow after the heavy rains of 1-11 the little "bumps" on the top are the observatories...

As seen in today's Tribune Herald

BIG ISLAND DRIFTS

Heavy clouds on Tuesday obscured the summit of Mauna Kea for most viewers in East Hawaii, but one vantage point for a crystal clear vista of the white mountain was from within the compound of Kulani Correctional Facility. The Mauna Kea Summit Access Road is expected to open this afternoon.

Gwen Biggert, administrative manager of the Mauna Kea Observatories Support Services, said winds were forecast to remain at about 30 mph for a wind chill index of minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit.

"They usually try to get it open by noon," Biggert said of the road-clearing crew.

Blowing snow has closed the access road since Sunday.

Those who venture to the summit must be aware of the numerous hazards, including altitude sickness, low oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, exposure and icy roads, and they should spend at least a half hour at the Visitor Information Station at the 9,200-foot elevation.

High altitude exposure is especially hazardous for pregnant women, people in poor physical condition, with heart or respiratory problems, children and teenagers.

Elsewhere, a fast-moving storm dropped 4.48 inches of rain on Pahoa in the 12-hour period ending 5 a.m. Tuesday. (thats near where we live, was a lot like sitting in a running dishwasher!)

Here are some great links... Read more about the Worlds tallest Mountain (over 32,000 ft from summit to seafloor!