Snow-loha! White Stuff Hits Hawaii

Jan. 24, 2006 — -- A rare rush of snow and ice closed the road to the summit of Mauna Kea, the tallest volcano on the island of Hawaii, and bad weather was expected for the rest of the week, forecasters said Monday.

An unusual snowstorm over the weekend prompted officials to close the popular tourist destination for the first time this winter season.

A blanket of snow forced everyone to evacuate, including park rangers, Mauna Kea Observatories Support Services said.

"We've got to make sure and keep everybody healthy and safe on the summit. So, I'm closing it," Mauna Kea ranger Kimo Pihana said.

The heavy snowfall was a rare sight, even for those who are up there almost every day.

"The snow began to accumulate very quickly, and we had to evacuate to prevent being trapped on the summit," telescope operator Paul Sears said.

Bob Nyman and his family were visiting Hawaii from California, and were at the summit when the snow started falling, before the road was shut down. They were stunned by the snowstorm.

"Wasn't really expecting to see snow in Hawaii," he said. "It was great."

Reported by ABCNEWS affiliate KITV in Hawaii.