ABSTRACT: This study analyzes 2 yr of surface climatological measurements at 6 sites forming a windward/leeward mountain cross-section on Hawai'i Island. Sites range in elevation from sea level to 2600 m and include wet, windward and dry, leeward slopes below the trade wind temperature inversion and a high elevation site located in the cool, dry air above the inversion. Climate contrasts between sites are emphasized using monthly average values. Data for the 670 m elevation leeward site represent some of the first climatological measurements of a unique leeward transition zone between areas of summer and winter rainfall maxima.

KEY WORDS: Hawaii . Mountain . Climate

Published in CR Vol. 5, No. 2 (1995) on June 22
ISSN: 0936-577X. Copyright © Inter-Research, Oldendorf/Luhe, 1995