Kaʻū News Briefs Dec. 25, 2024

Christmas with Madame Pele provided this view on Christmas Eve from Kīlauea Overlook in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
NPS Photo by Janice Wei

Some folks park on sidewalks and trails. Park rangers
 asks that visitors don't block them. NPS Photo

HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK SENT OUT A SAFETY ALERT due to the increased crowding of the Park for the holidays with the on-and-off eruption of the summit of Kīlauea Volcano. Many people coming to visit relatives in Kaʻū for Christmas have been going to the park along with the worldwide throng of tourists coming here. They are not only facing long lines but people parking along the roads and blocking roadways for others. "This not only causes traffic issues, but it makes it is unsafe and makes access extremely difficult for emergency vehicles, says the Park statement."

    Rangers report that some folks are even parking on sidewalks, which creates hazards for pedestrians and sets a bad example for other motorists. "Rangers reported plenty of parking at Steam Vents today but observed visitors parking on the sidewalk because other cars were there."
    The park statement says, "We know you’re super excited to see the latest eruption. We are too! The best way to ensure a safe parking spot and to have the best experience is to be an early bird or a night owl. Arrive before 4 a.m. or after 8 or even 9 p.m. when the crowds dissipate and there are parking spaces aplenty. Safety first!"

A large crowd gathered outside of Volcano House to watch the eruption from Kīlauea volcano around 5 p.m. on Christmas eve. Rangers at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park recommends that the public avoid the crowds and visit the park before 4 a.m. or after 9 p.m. for the best experience and way more parking. NPS Photo/J.Wei