What happened
A surge in volcanic activity and earthquakes at Hawaii's Kilauea volcano has led to temporary trail closures at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The US Geological Survey issued a notice on October 7, warning of increased activity and putting the volcano at an orange alert level for aviation.
According to the National Park Service, over 200 shallow earthquakes were recorded beneath the volcano's summit in the past week, prompting the closure of two trails due to the risk of rockfalls. Visitors have been advised to exercise caution, with warnings about the potential for volcanic ash and rock to irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory systems.
The National Park Service has recommended that visitors wear protective gear, including eye protection, long sleeves, and dust masks, when visiting the park. The increased activity has drawn visitors to the park, with over 1.8 million recreational visits made in 2025.
