Vehicles to be prohibited in portions of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park because of elevated fire risk

Some areas of the Big Island’s Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at most risk for wildfire will close to vehicles beginning at 5 p.m. Aug. 6.

Based on forecasted severe fire weather conditions, Mauna Loa Road will be closed to vehicles past the gate at Kīpukapuaulu. Vehicles will be prohibited from Hilina Pali Road past the gate beyond Kulanaokuaiki Campground.

Pedestrians and bicycles will be allowed.

In addition, all campfires and open-flame cooking will be prohibited at the Kīpukapuaulu day use area, Namakanipaio Campground and the fire pit near the Kīlauea Military Camp ballfield.

Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers are a common cause of wildfires. According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Dora as it passes south of the state coupled with high pressure to the north are also expected to result in strong trade winds and more dry conditions as soon as Aug. 7.

“Although rain is common at the summit of Kīlauea, other areas in the park are extremely dry with low humidity and the park has entered into a high fire risk index in those areas,” said Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Fire Operations Specialist Matt Desimone. “Safety is always our top priority, as well as the protection of the park’s cherished natural and cultural resources.”

Check the park website and social media for updates.