WRRCTR No.61 A Rainfall Climatology of Hilo, Hawaii

Abstract

Annual, monthly, and hourly rainfall data for Hilo, Hawaii are plotted and analyzed as a preliminary phase of the study of space-time variations in high intensity rainfall in this locality. A brief summary of the Hilo climate is provided. Annual rainfall amounts are shown to be highly variable, while the annual rainfall frequency remains relatively constant at about 33 percent. Monthly rainfall and maximum 24-hour rainfall amounts are displayed in the form of a monthly rainfall expectancy graph. Hourly rainfall amounts are divided into four intensity categories: 0.01 - 0.24, 0.24 - 0.49, 0.50 - 0.99 and >= l.00 inches per clock hour. The percentage distribution of annual and monthly rainfall amounts and frequencies by rainfall intensity category are plotted and discussed. Hourly data are displayed in a series of monthly diurnal distributions by rainfall intensity category.