Why is kauai so wet

This facilitates the growth of cloud droplets and causes them to condense and allow a large portion of rain in one place. The cloud accumulations in the region are quite large which explains why Mt Waialeale gets heavy rainfall.

This is a very tricky part, because Mt Waialeale is almost always covered with clouds. Consider yourself extremely lucky if you get a good look at the big guy from a distance. The mountain is better viewable early in the morning, when the clouds are not yet fully formed.

If splendid views of the Mount Waialeale from a distance is all you need, then the Kuilau Ridge trai l is an excellent option. It starts from the Keahua Arboretum and further extends as Moalepe Trail, leading to a footbridge over the Opaekaa stream. Combined with stunning views of Waialeale, you can also access other wonderful places along the trail.

The alakai swamp is located towards the west of Waialeale. The rainwater drains directly into the swamp causing it to be wet and muddy. It contains a signboard pointing to Mount Waialeale. The Pihea Trail that starts from the lookout, gradually joins the Alakai Swamp Trail after about 2 miles.

If you follow the trail further, you will be in for splendid views of the mountain range. If you can go for it, it is worth taking a helicopter tour to scan the entire magnitude of the giant mountain.

This is also the best possible way to witness the Waialeale summit. The lining of waterfalls that flow along the mountain walls impart a beauty that can only be best enjoyed by seeing from above.

The base of Mount Waialeale is commonly called the Blue hole. This is the crater from where you can see the weeping wall of the mountain. The blue hole hike, is extremely challenging and is suitable only for hikers with a lot of experience. As the northernmost large Hawaiian island, Kauai gets exposed to winter rains and front winds more than other islands in the chain. Meanwhile, the sharp cliffs encourage hot, humid air to rise quickly, which leads to a cycle of condensation and rain all concentrated in a small area.

The largest of these falls, Waipoo Falls, sends a steady stream of roiling water down feet into the pool below. Lots of rain means lots of lush foliage, flowing rivers and gorgeous waterfalls.

The central peak, Kawaikini Peak, reaches 5, feet into the sky, and cloud cover typically obscures the highest point of the mountain. By comparison, Waialeale got just under an inch —. It was noteworthy because so many previous months yielded such higher totals. Help keep our journalism free for all readers by becoming a monthly member of Civil Beat today. You're officially signed up for our daily newsletter, the Morning Beat. A confirmation email will arrive shortly.

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Don't worry, you can unsubscribe or update your preferences at any time. The landmark Weeping Wall is fed by the heavy rainfall on Mount Waialeale. The runoff from Mount Waialeale feeds numerous waterways.