News Release

Chain of Craters Road remains closed following short eruption

Arial view of forested area with plumes of smoke and steam rising from a burned area with new black lava rock.
Smoke and steam continue to rise the morning after the September 15 eruption.

USGS Photo courtesy of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

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News Release Date: September 16, 2024

Contact: Ben Hayes, 808-985-6010

HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi - Chain of Craters Road and additional areas remain closed to all use following a short eruption of Kīlauea.

Last night, September 15, Kīlauea volcano erupted between approximately 9 and 10 PM west of Nāpau Crater along the middle East Rift Zone in the park. The eruption is over. Potential impacts to the trail, nearby pulu factory site and burn impacts to vegetation are still being evaluated.  

According to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), “Additional ground cracking and outbreaks of lava around the active fissures are possible at any time, or, existing fissures can be reactivated.” The HVO volcano alert level remains at WATCH and aviation color at Orange indicating that the unrest may not be over. 

Chain of Craters Road and other areas remain closed as the park and USGS partners continue to evaluate impacts and hazards. Areas will reopen after conditions are determined to be safe. 

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



Last updated: September 16, 2024

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