As reported by The Garden Island, Hawaii experienced one of its warmest and driest years on record in 2025, according to the University of Hawai‘i Annual Climate Report. Data shows temperatures were above average every month of the year, and rainfall was below average in all but one month.
The report, compiled through the Hawai‘i Climate Data Portal, aims to provide communities, policymakers, and resource managers with actionable climate data to support long-term planning across the islands.
By the Numbers: A Historically Dry Year
Statewide rainfall averaged just 42 inches in 2025, compared to the 30-year average of 62 inches — making it the second-driest year on record since 1920 . For context, the driest year on record, 2010, recorded 40 inches.
Temperatures were also elevated across the islands. 2025 ranked among the top five warmest years for nearly every island. Maui and Kauai experienced their third-warmest year, while Oahu recorded its fourth-warmest. Oahu averaged 1 degree Fahrenheit above normal, with other islands ranging between 0.7 and 0.9 degrees warmer.
Kauai specifically saw 56% of the island classified as abnormally dry, with 10% experiencing severe drought conditions. Hanalei recorded one of the year’s highest single-day rainfall totals at 11 inches in November, but overall dryness dominated the annual climate pattern.
February stood out as particularly extreme, with rainfall 76% below average statewide and temperatures 1.4 degrees above normal.
Drought Conditions Across the State
By late summer, much of Hawaii was experiencing drought conditions. At peak severity, 56% of the state was in severe drought or worse, and 71% of the islands were abnormally dry or in drought during September.
Maui experienced its driest year on record, with 41% less rainfall than average. Hawaii Island recorded its second-driest year, while Molokai experienced extended dry periods including 158 consecutive days with minimal rainfall.
What This Means for Kauai Real Estate and Long-Term Planning
For those considering Kauai real estate investment, oceanfront property ownership, agricultural land, or long-term relocation to Hawaii, climate trends are increasingly part of the conversation.
Extended dry periods affect:
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Water resource management
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Agricultural production and ranch lands
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Landscaping and property maintenance
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Wildfire risk
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Infrastructure planning
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Insurance considerations
For luxury homes, resort properties, and second-home buyers, Hawaii’s appeal remains strong. However, long-term climate resilience, water infrastructure, and sustainable development practices are becoming key factors influencing future land use, building design, and property values across the islands.
The University of Hawai‘i’s expanded climate monitoring network — now operating 76 Mesonet stations statewide with more planned — reflects growing attention to data-driven planning.
As Hawaii navigates hotter and drier climate patterns, thoughtful planning will be essential to preserving the lifestyle, natural beauty, and real estate value that define Kauai and the broader island market.
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For more local news and Kauai real estate information, contact us at:
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