Home / Environment / Kīlauea Alert: Trails Closed Amidst Volcanic Unrest
Kīlauea Alert: Trails Closed Amidst Volcanic Unrest
9 Oct
Summary
- Over 200 earthquakes recorded beneath Kīlauea's summit last week.
- Halemaʻumaʻu and Byron Ledge trails closed due to seismic activity.
- Volcano remains at ORANGE aviation code, indicating eruption potential.
Officials are closely observing Kīlauea volcano in Hawaiʻi following a surge in seismic activity and potential rockfall hazards. The U.S. Geological Survey reported over 200 shallow earthquakes beneath the summit within the last week. In response, the National Park Service has temporarily closed the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail and a section of Byron Ledge Trail, affecting 1.3 miles of pathways.
The volcano remains at an ORANGE aviation color code, indicating heightened activity and a possibility of eruption. Scientists noted that conditions have changed, making it impossible to forecast the exact timing of further lava fountaining episodes. Hazards for visitors include potentially dangerous gas emissions and small, glassy volcanic fragments that can cause irritation.
