Winds The trade winds that flow over and around the islands most of the time, must pass over mountains and through valleys. These winds are usually above 12 mile per hour. As they encounter these obstacles, wind speeds are increased as they pass through valleys and their direction changes as eddies form. Winds may be gusty, strong and unpredictable as a result. Winds above 60 miles per hour are rare events, occurring only about every five years. |
Hurricanes Hurricanes rarely hit Hawaii. Damaging hurricanes that do significant damage have been separated by about 10 years on the average. These hurricanes are usually generated between Hawaii and Baja California. The most recent severe hurricane, Iniki, struck Kauai and parts of Oahu in 1991. |