County leaders are urging caution to the public coming to see the Mauna Loa eruption after emergency crews have responded to three car crashes on Daniel K. Inouye Highway since the flow began.
On Tuesday at 9:05 p.m., Hawaiʻi Fire Department responded to a crash at mile marker 44 where six people needed treatment, two needing medical transport for minor injuries. It was reported to the medic onboard that the injured patients were idled along the shoulder lane of the highway when they were struck while attempting to pull back on the main roadway.
“We understand that it is unpopular for us to limit parking along the roadway, but, unfortunately, it’s necessary to keep each other safe,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “We know our community is eager to witness the eruption, and we are actively working to find safe ways for folks to do just that. Our main priority will always be the health and safety of our community, and we thank the community for their understanding as our precautions evolve to adequately address the ongoing situation.”
Police patrols and enforcement will continue along the highway, also known as Saddle Road, throughout the eruption. Anyone parking or walking along the roadway between mile markers 16 and 31 could face a $1,000 fine.
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