Weather in Kona

Weather in Kona is mild and predictable, generally consistent throughout the year. Sunny skies and warm temperatures are pretty much the norm for Kona weather, every month of the year. This is not to suggest that it doesn't rain. It does, just usually not for very long. And even when it does rain it is usually mild and pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

Today's Forecast Weather in Kona

During September, the warmest month, the average high in Kona is 88°F (31°C), with lows averaging 73°F (23°C). During the coolest month of February, the average high is 82°F (28°C) with a low of 66°F (19°C). The highest recorded temperature in Kona was 95°F (35°C) in 1989 and the record low was 53°F (12°C) in 2003.

Even when it's raining just a short distance up the slopes of Hualalai, there is very little rain in town on average, There is even less rain north of town along the Kohala coast. During the summer, average monthly rainfall in Kona is less than one inch. The driest month is June, averaging less than a half inch of rainfall. Even during January, the wettest month on average, less than two inches of rain falls.

Kona weather patterns change very little from summer to winter, with plenty of sunshine even during those winter months when other parts of the country are cold and wet. As you travel north of town toward Waikoloa, the climate only gets better. There is typically far less cloud cover along the Kona-Kohala coast than you will find in town.

Keep an eye on weather warnings and check the tides when planning your day at the beach. While trade winds help keep the temperatures mild, high surf advisories may indicate strong coastal winds. Be particularly alert near the coast during high tide or high surf.

Clouds or Vog?

One of the indirect impacts on Kona weather is vog. Vog is the haze that is often seen hanging in the air over Hualalai like a heavy shroud, impacting visibility. Similar to smog, vog is produced from the eruption of the Kilauea volcano as the sulfur dioxide emissions mix with air, dust and water particles.

The prevailing winds push the vog more than 50 miles from the Kilauea eruption. This is the reason a haze is frequently seen in the sky around Kona and places south. Vog is generally even more prevalent in areas like Hualalai and Captain Cook. If you suffer from emphysema, asthma or have other heart or lung issues, you might consider consulting with your doctor before your visit to the Big Island.