Climate Change Hawaii

Hawaii is experiencing rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, sea level rise, and more intense storms, all of which are reshaping its ecosystems, communities, and economy.

Current Impacts

Hawaii has already seen significant climate-related changes. The islands experienced their second-driest year in over a century in 2025, with statewide rainfall averaging just 42 inches—about 20 inches below the 30-year average—leading to drought conditions across multiple islands, including Maui and Hawaii Island (University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant, 2026) University of Hawaii System. Rising temperatures have been persistent, contributing to hotter conditions year-round and increasing the risk of heat stress for humans and wildlife (Hawaii Climate Commission) hawaii.gov. Drought has also intensified wildfire risks, exemplified by the devastating Maui wildfires that destroyed Lahaina and caused at least 97 fatalities (Climate Integrity, 2024) climateintegrity.org.