Governor Ige Updates Situation Atop Mauna Kea

Rocks and boulders placed on the gravel road leading to the summit of Mauna Kea have been removed, according to Governor David Ige. The roadway was cleared by the Office of Mauna Kea Management, in collaboration with volunteers.

“The state continues to assess and monitor the situation to ensure the safety of the people on Mauna Kea,” according to Governor Ige.

As first announced on Wednesday, the road has been temporarily closed until further notice. In his statement, Governor Ige said the closure is authorized under the Mauna Kea Comprehensive Management Plan, which allows the University of Hawai’i to close the road when hazardous conditions or emergencies arise.

In addition, Governor Ige announced that questions about the grading of the road leading to the summit has also been a topic of discussion. The road that leads to the summit is graded by OMKM twice a week.

Mauna Kea Visitors Center remains closed until further notice, according to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. It has not been determined when the visitor’s center or road access will be reopened.