Weatherscapes: West Maui Mountains – Moods of the Pacific's Winds.

The West Maui Mountains in Hawaii are known for their diverse and changeable weather conditions. The area, spanning approximately 160 square miles, can experience a wide range of weather at any given moment. This variability is influenced by two types of winds: trade winds and Kona winds. Trade winds blow predominantly from the northeast and bring moisture-laden air that cools and produces rainfall when forced over the steep terrain. Kona winds, originating from the south and southwest, contribute to the area's meteorological character and often bring rain and a phenomenon called vog. The West Maui Mountains receive some of the highest rainfall totals in the world, with average volumes increasing with altitude. Temperatures in the area range from the low 80s to low 90s during the day and from the low 60s to low 70s at night. The West Maui Mountains are connected to the main island of Maui by a low isthmus and are home to Hawaii's largest nature preserve, Puʻu Kukui Watershed Preserve. [Extracted from the article]