National Park Service: Kīlauea eruption hazards increase along Chain of Craters Road

Chain of Craters Road is open to Hōlei Sea Arch but volcanic hazards have increased from the eruption near Nāpau Crater, the National Park Service reported late Thursday afternoon.

The middle East Rift Zone eruption significantly increased in volume on the afternoon of Sept. 18. Hazardous concentrations of volcanic gasses and particulate matter, or vog, may occur along Chain of Craters Road due to the ongoing eruption.

“For your safety, do not stop at the Kealakomo Overlook or surrounding area and follow all posted signs and ranger instructions,” the National Park Service stated.

Maunaulu Trail and parking area, Nāpau Trail and Nāulu Trail remain closed to all use due to continued eruption hazards including gas emissions and for potential wildland fire. Kealakomo Overlook and the surrounding area are also closed.

Do not enter closed areas. Lava viewing is not possible.

Lava glow may be viewable from open parking and pull outs along Chain of Craters Road. Check the park website for the best viewing options and times. Visitors should be prepared for heavy traffic, long lines of cars, limited parking, and no restrooms. Only park in designated spaces, do not park in or along any roadways.

All visitors to Chain of Craters Road are urged to stay safe and be respectful of the hazards by doing the following:

• Use the park air monitoring website as you visit the park. Hazardous volcanic gases present a danger to everyone, especially people with heart or respiratory problems, infants, young children and pregnant women.  
• Slow down and drive safely. Observe posted speed limits, watch for pedestrians, drive slow over earthquake cracks and bumps and be on the lookout for wildlife such as nēnē, the world’s rarest goose.
• Got vog? Roll up your windows and turn your air conditioner on to recirculate. Stay in your vehicle and leave and the area.

The eruption near Nāpau Crater began on Sept. 15 in a remote wilderness area. This area remains closed, is fraught with hazards and no lava viewing is possible.  

Visitors should always check the park website for updates, closures and alerts that could impact their visit.