USGS Reminds Hikers to Use Caution in Ocean Entry Area

Visitors begin the hike to Kamokuna. NPS photo/Janice Wei

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports the active lava flow from Puʻu ʻŌʻō in the East Rift Zone is entering the ocean at Kamokuna located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

Additional surface flows are active near Puʻu ʻŌʻō and more recently moving beyond the National Park eastern boundary onto private property near the abandoned Royal Gardens subdivision.

Bright incandescence is visible from the active lava flow field, and the lava flow does not pose a threat to any community at this time.

To maintain public safety and to extend the use of the emergency road or Highway 130, the County of Hawai‘i opened the emergency road to lava viewing in June 30, 2016.

Vehicular traffic on the emergency road is limited to local residents and emergency vehicles, and is being monitored by security guards posted along the viewing area. The road is unpaved and surrounded on all sides by rough lava flows on private property. Public access is restricted to the graded roadway and viewers are asked to respect private property and the rights of local residents

Visitors need to be aware of the following reminders:

• Viewing area hours are from 3 to 9 p.m. daily, with the last car allowed to park at 9 p.m.
• It is about 8.5 miles round-trip from end of the pavement on Highway 130 to the ocean entry at Kamokuna and back. The flow can be seen starting from just beyond the parking lot all along the viewing area route.
• Restroom facilities are limited and lack running water.
• All members of your party should dress appropriately, with boots or sturdy, covered shoes, long pants and a hat.
• Be prepared for rain, wind, sun, heat and dust exposure.
• Bring lots of water (1 to 2 liters per person), there is no potable water available.
• Bring a flashlight for walking at night.

Our goal is to maintain public safety, protect the interests of Kalapana residents, and extend the use of the emergency road or Highway 130. We ask for your patience and kokua (help).