Winter on the north shore of Maui usually brings big waves and a change in our regular wind patterns.
Named after the Hawaiian word for Western Side, Kona winds are associated with cyclones with central pressures below 1000 hPa which pass within 500 miles/820 km northwest of the Hawaiian Islands. Strong Kona winds usually last from a day to a week. Considerable damage can be caused to boats lying southwest of the islands. Because of the change in direction, trees and other items used to bracing Trade winds can also suffer at the hands of a strong Kona wind.
On the north shore of Maui, mild Konas are welcomed by surfers who enjoy the effect that an offshore wind has on a wave. Windsurfers also may take advantage of these conditions to sail on the south side or experience north shore sailing on an opposite tack than usual.
Regardless, Konas bring a fresh look and feel to our island and as with all natural things we welcome them with Aloha.
I wish I was there to expercience it!!!
“kona” in the context you chose to use it, means Leeward as opposed to “koolau” which means windward.
†he direction “west” is often but not always ” komohona”.
Wonder where the best place is to live in Hawaii to kite surf. I am going there to live in March. Anyone got any ideas. North shore maui is looking like the best. Around Hookipa ?
Any help appreciated. By the way thanks to mauiwindcam for the best HD web cam I have ever seen…