22/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 23/07/2024 00:22
Contact:Jessica Ferracane, 808-985-6018
HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi - Kīlauea is not erupting, however a sudden increase in earthquakes and ground deformation starting around 11 a.m. Monday in the volcano's upper East Rift Zone has prompted Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to close areas that could put visitors and staff at risk if the volcano erupts.
The temporary closures include:
According to the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, it is not known if the current conditions will lead to an eruption in the near future or if magma will remain confined below ground. However, an eruption in the upper East Rift Zone of Kīlauea is one potential outcome.
The uptick in activity 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, and Nāhuku. However, it is a very busy time of year and the visitor center parking lot was filled by 10 a.m.
Park visitors are urged to plan ahead and check the park website for any closure or hazard alerts at www.nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes.
-NPS-