HONOLULU (KHON2) — Officials are closing some areas near Kīlauea due to a significant spike in earthquakes.
“Safety is our main focus, and the uncertainty of where an eruption could break out increases risk,” said Chief Ranger Jack Corrao. “Elevated volcanic gases, dangerous lava activity, damaging earthquakes and lava-ignited wildfire are all potential hazards associated with an eruption.”
USGS warned that it is not possible to know whether an eruption will start because of the earthquakes but it is a potential outcome.
In the last 24 hours there have been 360 shallow earthquakes in areas south of Kīlauea caldera, the upper East Rift Zone across Chain of Craters Road near Puhimau Crater.
The range of earthquake location adds “to the uncertainty of where an eruption could occur.”
Temporary closures have been implemented at:
Hilina Pali Road is closed to all use. Kulanaokuaiki Campground is closed
Overnight camping is suspended for all coastal sites, as well as Nāpau and Pepeiao Cabin
Kaʻū Desert Trail is closed from the Footprints Exhibit
Maunaiki Trail is closed
Many areas of the park are still open, including the Kilauea Visitor Center, Crater Rim Trail overlooks, Volcano House, Nāhuku lava tube and Chain of Craters Road among others.
KHON2 will have a full report from officials on the evening newscasts at 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10.