Snowstorm Closes Hawaii Volcano To Tourists
Rare Event Causes Concern, Surprise

Detroit Local 4 | January 23, 2006

MAUNA KEA, Hawaii -- Officials closed the summit of Hawaii's Mauna Kea volcano to the public after a snowstorm shut down access for the first time this winter season.

Clouds blanketed Hawaii's tallest peak this weekend. A blanket of snow forced everyone to evacuate, including park rangers.

(Check out the snow from Honolulu TV station KITV's Web cam on Mauna Kea)

"We've got to make sure and keep everybody healthy and safe on the summit. So, I'm closing it," Mauna Kea ranger Kimo Pihana said.

The heavy snowfall was a rare sight, even for those who are up there almost every day.

"The snow began to accumulate very quickly and we had to evacuate to prevent being trapped on the summit," telescope operator Paul Sears said.

A California family was at the summit when the snow started falling, before the road was shut down.

"Did you ever think you'd see snow in Hawaii?" a reporter asked.

"Wasn't really expecting to see snow in Hawaii," said Bob Nyman.

"So it's a nice treat on your vacation?" the reporter asked.

"Oh absolutely. It was great," Nyman said.

For visitors who didn't have timing on their side, the trek ended at the 9,000-foot mark where the road was closed.