HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii — Park officials say the new eruption that began early Monday morning is in a remote area about 2.5 miles southwest of Kilauea caldera not accessible to the public, however, they announced temporary closures are in place:
- Hilina Pali Road from Chain of Craters Road intersection
- Kulanaokuaiki Campground
- Pepeiao Cabin
- Kaʻaha Trail and campground
- Kaʻū Desert Trail and pullout on Highway 11
- Maunaiki Trail
The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to assess the eruption and no safe lava-viewing locations have been established per park officials. The eruption is entirely within the national park and does not currently pose a threat to the community.
The park is expecting an influx of visitors who are asked to stay safe and be respectful of the sacredness of Kilauea by doing the following:
- Volcanic eruptions are hazardous. Stay on marked trails and overlooks; do not enter closed areas. Avoid cliff edges and earth cracks, which are unstable.
- Respect Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners who honor the sacred legacy of this land and give them space to practice their customs.
- Slow down and drive safely. Expect long waits for parking at popular sites.
Popular areas in the park are open, including Kilauea Visitor Center, overlooks along Crater Rim Trail, Volcano House, Nahuku lava tube and Chain of Craters Road, but no lava is visible. Coastal backcountry sites from Halape to the east remain open.
Officials described a red-orange lava glow that was visible in the sky before dawn on Monday from overlooks along Crater Rim Trail including Uekahuna and Volcano House. After daybreak, a wispy gas plume became visible in the distance from Uekahuna and other summit overlooks.
Park officials urge visitors to plan ahead and check the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website for closure and hazard alerts. Live webcam images, Kilauea updates and more are available on the USGS HVO website.
