HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii — Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is temporarily closing several parts of the park as earthquakes increase below Kilauea volcano. It announced late Monday that it will close Chain of Craters Road at the intersection of Crater Rim Drive as of 5 p.m.

The closures will ensure the safety of visitors and staff if the Kilauea volcano erupts, according to a park release.

On Saturday, seismic activity increased below the upper East Rift Zone and Kilauea’s caldera. A U.S. Geological Survey update said since then, the earthquakes have continued and intensified. 

Between noon on Sunday and Monday, seismic readers recorded over 360 earthquakes. During the 24 hours prior, 250 earthquakes were recorded, mainly beneath the upper East Rift Zone, with fewer in the caldera. 

The USGS emphasized it is impossible to say if the increase in activity will lead to an eruption. 

However, eruptions in the summit region of Kilauea or beneath the upper East Rift Zone are possible outcomes. 

The park’s closures include the following: 

  • Chain of Craters Road from the intersection of Crater Rim Drive
  • Hilina Pali Road is closed to all use. Kulanaokuaiki Campground is closed
  • Overnight camping is suspended for all coastal sites, Napau and Pepeiao Cabin
  • Kau Desert Trail is closed from the Footprints Exhibit
  • Maunaiki Trail is closed

“Safety is our main focus, and the uncertainty of where an eruption could break out increases risk,” said Chief Ranger Jack Corrao. “Elevated volcanic gases, dangerous lava activity, damaging earthquakes and lava-ignited wildfire are all potential hazards associated with an eruption.”

Related Stories

The increased seismicity has not impacted ongoing infrastructure projects. 

The last eruption at Kilauea took place from Sept. 10-16, 2023. 

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

Editor's note: The story has been updated to note that Chain of Craters Road at the intersection of Crater Rim Drive has been closed as of 5 p.m. Monday. (April 29, 2024)