Seasonal· Molokai· Hawaii
Kona Storms and Hurricane Season (Molokai and Lanai)
21° 4.9′ N · 157° 1.8′ W · approximate
Hawaii's rare but serious threats: kona storms that swing the wind into the south and southwest in winter, and Eastern Pacific hurricanes that occasionally track toward the islands from May through November.
Practical
Coordinate is approx (Kaunakakai Harbor, the main refuge). Coast Pilot 10: Eastern North Pacific hurricanes are prevalent May through November, with August the most favorable month for one to reach the islands; most recurve or dissipate first, but four hurricanes have struck Hawaii since 1950 and several times that many tropical cyclones have come close enough to bring wind, cloud and rain. Kona weather, when the trades give way to south winds, is most likely in autumn and early winter; intense October-April rains can cause flash floods in the valleys. Refuges: Kamalo Harbor (soft mud, protected west to north) and Pukoo lagoon (shoal draft) on Molokai; Lanai has no kona-proof anchorage (Kaumalapau and Manele are both exposed in kona weather). Monitor NWS Honolulu and NOAA Weather Radio.
Best for
Storm planning and choosing a refuge
Season
Hurricanes: May-November (peak August). Konas: autumn-winter
Nearby
- Kaunakakai HarborRight here
- Kaunakakai Wharf and Guest Dock0.1 NM away
- Molokai Sport Fishing Charters0.1 NM away
- Friendly Isle Laundromat (Molokai Stores)0.6 NM away
- Kaunakakai Fuel (Town Station and Wharf Truck Delivery)0.6 NM away
- Paddlers Restaurant and Bar0.6 NM away
- Kanemitsu Bakery Hot Bread0.7 NM away
- Kaunakakai Hardware (Take's Variety and Atlas Building Supply)0.7 NM away