Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park has reopened its Center and the Hawai’i Pacific Parks Association store as the the park continues to recover from Hurricane Lala. According to the most recent update released on Tuesday, August 18th, the park remains very busy and parking lots are filling by noon Hawaii Standard Time.
Very limited services continue as crews and park staff work through the impacts of the storm. Most of the park remains closed with widespread power and infrastructure issues heavily limiting operations.
Hazardous Conditions Remain
Although Hurricane Lala has passed, conditions are still potentially dangerous throughout Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Hazards include falling trees, unstable slopes, floodng, debris, damaged roads, and damaged facilities. Visitors should follow all closures and posted warnings and should avoid entering areas that appear unsafe.
The park entrance to Uēkahuna has reopened but services remain limited. Earlier this week the park was operating without power, phone service, or internet access. Park rangers and volunteers were providing visitor information from the Kilauea Military Camp lobby while the Welcome Center was closed.
Visitors Urged to Plan Ahead
Tthe safety of visitors, employees, partners, and surrounding communities remains the top priority. Many park employees, their families, and nearby residents are also recovering from the hurricane’s impacts.
Visitors planning a trip to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park should be prepared for limited services and possible closures. Heavy storm damage can continue creating hazards even after weather conditions improve, particularly in areas affected by falling trees, flooding, and unstable terrain.
With the park already experiencing heavy visitation and parking areas filling quickly, travelers should also expect congestion and limited parking during busy periods. The National Park Service is continuing to assess conditions across Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park as recovery efforts continue.