News Release

Chain of Craters Road Reopens as Eruption Hazards Ease

During a USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory monitoring overflight the morning of September 18, geologists observed only very weak activity at Kīlauea's middle East Rift Zone eruption site in Nāpau Crater.

USGS photo by M.Patrick

News Release Date: September 18, 2024

Contact: Ben Hayes

HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi – Chain of Craters Road is now open as eruption hazards ease in Kīlauea volcano’s middle East Rift Zone (MERZ).  

Hilina Pali Road and Kulanaokuaiki Campground are now open to traffic. With the exception of Nāpau, backcountry sites have reopened as well. 

Maunaulu Trail and parking area, Nāpau Trail and Nāulu Trail remain closed to all use due to continued eruption hazards including gas emissions and potential wildland fire. Escape road is open from Highway 11 to the Mauna Ulu Parking lot access road closure. 

The eruption at Nāpau Crater continues and serious hazards still exist. All visitors to Chain of Craters Road are urged to stay safe and be respectful of the hazards by doing the following:  

• Volcanic eruptions can be hazardous and change at any time. Stay on marked trails and overlooks. Do not enter closed areas. Avoid cliff edges and earth cracks, they are unstable.  

• Hazardous volcanic gases present a danger to everyone, especially people with heart or respiratory problems, infants, young children and pregnant women. Use the park air monitoring website as you visit the park. 

• Slow down and drive safely. Observe posted speed limits, drive slow over earthquake cracks and bumps and be on the lookout for wildlife such as nēnē, the world's rarest goose. 

The eruption near Nāpau Crater began on Sunday, September 15 in a remote wilderness area. This area remains closed, no eruption viewing is possible. Lava glow was not visible from Chain of Craters Road overnight.  

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

-NPS-