Kīlauea is not erupting, however a significant spike in earthquakes has prompted Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to close some areas that could put visitors and staff at risk if the volcano erupts.
The temporary closures include:
-
Hilina Pali Road is closed to all use. Kulanaokuaiki Campground is closed.
- Overnight camping is suspended for all coastal sites, Nāpau and Pepeiao Cabin.
- Kaʻū Desert Trail is closed from the Footprints Exhibit.
- Maunaiki Trail is closed.
In a press release Chief Ranger Jack Corrao said, “Safety is our main focus, and the uncertainty of where an eruption could break out increases risk. Elevated volcanic gases, dangerous lava activity, damaging earthquakes and lava-ignited wildfire are all potential hazards associated with an eruption.”
According to the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, it is not currently possible to know if this increase in activity will lead to an eruption in the near future or simply remain confined below ground. However, the gradual strengthening of seismic swarms suggests that an eruption in the summit region of Kīlauea or beneath the upper East Rift Zone in the park is one potential outcome.
About 360 shallow earthquakes in the last 24 hours have ping-ponged between areas south of Kīlauea caldera to the upper East Rift Zone across Chain of Craters Road near Puhimau Crater, adding to the uncertainty of where an eruption could occur. Their magnitude has ranged from M-1 to M-3.
The increased seismicity has not impacted traffic safety or infrastructure projects at the summit.
Many popular areas in the park remain open, including Kīlauea Visitor Center, overlooks along Crater Rim Trail, Volcano House, Nāhuku lava tube, Chain of Craters Road and more.
Park visitors are urged to check the park’s website for any closure or hazard alerts at www.nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes.
Photo credit: HVNP
