HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii — Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano, which erupted after a three-month pause on Wednesday.

The eruption is currently contained in Kilauea’s summit crater Halema‘uma‘u, which is within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island. 

The national park shared safe viewing tips in a news release sent out Wednesday:

  • Be cautious of hazardous gasses emitted from the volcano. Pregnant women, children and people with heart conditions are especially vulnerable.

  • Stay on marked trails at all times and avoid cliff edges.

  • To avoid sizable crowds, visit the park before 5 a.m. or after 9 p.m. The park is open 24 hours a day. 

  • Drive carefully and expect large waits for parking spots, particularly at Kilauea Overlook and Devastation parking lot.

  • The summit can be chilly. Bring a rain jacket, and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.
  • Check the park website for updates on the eruption and closures.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was updated to include a live webcam feed of the volcano. (June 8, 2023)

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.

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