Considering the University of Hawaii - Hilo weather? Nestled in Hilo on Hawaii's Big Island, this campus enjoys a tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round, averaging 71°F (22°C) lows and 82°F (28°C) highs. However, Hilo is one of the rainiest cities in the U.S., receiving over 126 inches (320 cm) of precipitation annually, shaping daily life with frequent showers and lush greenery. Environmental factors like volcanic geology from nearby Kilauea and Mauna Loa add unique appeal but also hazards such as lava flows and earthquakes. Air quality remains excellent, with low pollution levels enhancing liveability. Our ratings highlight temperature comfort at 5/5 stars but note challenges from heavy rain (2/5) and natural risks (3/5), yielding an overall 4/5 liveability score ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Faculty and students appreciate the mild warmth for campus activities, though preparedness for rain and volcanic alerts is key. Parents value the safety measures, while job seekers find the environment conducive to research in natural sciences. Discover higher-ed-jobs at University of Hawaii - Hilo and plan your move confidently with insights on Hilo weather, environment at University of Hawaii - Hilo, and more from AcademicJobs.com.
The weather in Hilo features consistent mild temperatures, rarely dipping below 65°F (18°C) or exceeding 85°F (29°C). Annual rainfall exceeds 126 inches (320 cm), with the wettest months from November to April averaging 10-15 inches (25-38 cm) monthly. Extremes include rare hurricanes and vog (volcanic smog) from eruptions. This climate supports year-round outdoor classes but requires rain gear for campus walks. Impacts on daily life include vibrant rainforests around University of Hawaii - Hilo, fostering biodiversity studies. For broader context, explore Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Hawaii, or Academic Jobs in Hilo.
Temperatures 70-81°F (21-27°C), rainfall 10-20 inches/month. University issues flood watches; students need umbrellas and waterproof boots. Extra costs: $50-100/year for rain gear, higher utilities from dehumidifiers.
Temps 72-83°F (22-28°C), still 5-10 inches rain/month. Ideal for beach trips; AC rarely needed, saving on bills. Safety tip: Monitor vog alerts via university app.
University policies include class cancellations for severe storms. Job seekers should budget $200/year extra for clothing. Check higher-ed-career-advice for relocation tips.
At 355 feet (108 m) elevation, University of Hawaii - Hilo sits on volcanic soil from active Kilauea, 20 miles away, enriching geology programs but causing occasional vog with SO2 levels up to 100 ppb. Air quality index averages 30 (good), far below urban pollution. Low density (pop. 45,000) minimizes particulates, benefiting health for asthmatics. University provides air monitors and health clinics. Hilo environment supports eco-research; learn more via research-jobs.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Protocols |
|---|---|---|
| Volcanic Eruptions/Lava | Occasional (e.g., 2018) | Evacuation drills, USGS alerts |
| Floods/Heavy Rain | Frequent | Flood gates, remote classes |
| Tsunamis/Earthquakes | Rare | Sirens, vertical evac to campus hills |
| Hurricanes | Infrequent | Shelters, power backups |
Overall low fire/drought risk due to moisture. Safety measures keep risks manageable for students and faculty.
Extra costs: $100-200/year for raincoats, boots, dehumidifiers; utilities $150/month due to humidity. No heavy winter gear needed, unlike mainland. Insurance premiums 10-20% higher for volcanic risks. Essentials: umbrellas, quick-dry clothes, fans. Budget via professor-salaries insights. Explore university-salaries for cost context.
Humid weather aids skin health but raises mold risks; university offers free wellness checks. Rain enhances transport via shuttles, though biking needs ponchos. Campus life thrives with luaus in mild temps. Low pollution supports mental clarity for exams. Access clinical-research-jobs for health studies here. Job seekers note vibrant community; see higher-ed-jobs/faculty.
Stay informed for safe studies. Link to academic-calendar.
Students rave about the perpetual spring-like University of Hawaii - Hilo weather fostering outdoor learning, but note constant rain challenges focus during monsoons—many pack multiple umbrellas. The volcanic environment excites geology majors, though vog days prompt indoor study shifts. "The lush Hilo environment boosts creativity, but be ready for wet commutes," shares a bio student. Many discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at University of Hawaii - Hilo. Faculty echo the appeal for field research. Check Rate My Professor for more insights.
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