Transforming Hawaii’s Volcanoes: How a Heavy Dusting of ‘Pineapple Powder’ Turns Landscapes White

In February 2021, stunning satellite images captured Hawaii’s Big Island blanketed in snow—a rare sight known locally as “pineapple powder.” This snowfall marked one of the biggest in the region’s recent history.

The first image highlights Mauna Loa, which rises 13,681 feet (4,170 meters), while the second showcases Mauna Kea, slightly taller at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters), located 25 miles north. Both peaks were photographed on the same day, revealing extensive snow coverage.

Mauna Loa remains active and last erupted in late 2022, as noted by the Global Volcanism Program. In contrast, Mauna Kea has been dormant for over 4,600 years.

Unlike what many might think, snow in Hawaii is not as unusual as it seems. Typically, both volcanoes receive light snowfall annually, especially between October and April. However, the snowfall in 2021 was exceptional, showing the second-highest accumulation for this time period since records began in 2001. Up to 2 feet of snow (0.6 meters) fell within a single day during the storm.

Local reports indicated that residents eagerly traded their surfboards for snowboards and skis, taking advantage of the rare winter wonderland once the roads cleared. This snow-related shift is notable in a state more famous for its sun and surf.

Hawaii’s unique weather patterns often lead to snowfall, primarily due to a phenomenon called “Kona low.” Here, winds shift direction, allowing moisture from the ocean to turn into snow as it ascends the mountainside. On average, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea see about 20 days of snow each year, according to the Lyman Museum. Interestingly, there have been instances of snow falling as late as June.

However, climate change poses a dilemma for Hawaii’s snowy future. Recent studies predict that human-induced climate shifts will significantly reduce the likelihood of snowfall in the region. An increase in sea surface temperatures may make the Kona low phenomenon less frequent, leading to an estimated tenfold decrease in winter snowfall in the coming years, warns Chunxi Zhang from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa.

The lore surrounding these majestic mountains adds another layer of intrigue. Hawaiian mythology speaks of Mauna Kea as the domain of the snow goddess Poli’ahu, who once raced against Pele, the goddess of fire. According to legend, Poli’ahu’s victory incited Pele’s fury, resulting in volcanic eruptions. This narrative reflects the deep cultural connection Hawaiians have with their landscape, emphasizing the interplay between fire and ice.

As we look ahead, the future of snow in Hawaii hangs in the balance, shaped by ecological changes and steeped in myth. While this year’s snowfall created a moment of joy for many, the looming threat of climate change may alter this unique aspect of Hawaii forever.

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