What to know about visiting Hawaii Island during the volcanic eruption

Hawaii Island’s Kilauea volcano began erupting on Sunday, Nov. 9, drawing in hordes of visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park eager to witness the natural spectacle.

As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea has intermittently erupted since December 2024. On Nov. 9, the volcano spewed lava for five straight hours, with some lava fountains reaching up to 1,100 feet, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

During that episode, a tornado-like wind vortex of spinning ash known as a “volnado” flew around the caldera summit.

Crowds flocked to the park to view the volcanic activity, considered a sacred event in Hawaiian culture tied to the goddess of both creation and destruction, Pele. While the government shutdown reduced the number of park rangers on duty, law enforcement was present to manage the high influx of visitors.

“Traffic remains heavy, and rain persists in the park, but this eruptive phase is over!” the national park posted on Facebook on Nov. 9.

As of Nov. 13, Kilauea has paused erupting. But volcanic eruptions are unpredictable, meaning lava flow can stop and restart at any time.

The volcano remains under an orange “watch” alert, with its north and south vents continuing to glow at night and emit fumes, according to the USGS. “Continued inflation, glow from the vents, and tremor all indicate that another fountaining episode is likely,” the agency said.

Here’s what travelers should know about visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park amid the most recent Kilauea eruption.

Is it safe to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

Yes, as long as travelers stay out of closed-off areas. “The eruption is in an area that has been closed since 2007,” the park said on Facebook. “Hazards include volcanic gas, steep unstable cliff edges, earth cracks, and the potential for lava fountains and falling airborne rock material.”

In January, a visitor from Boston was rescued by first responders after falling down a 30-foot cliff, trying to get a closer look at Kilauea during an eruption. A tree broke his fall, and he suffered minor facial injuries.

Travelers can also expect congested roadways and lookouts. Many opt to visit the park after the sun sets, to see the lava glow a bright red against the night sky and avoid most crowds. The park urges nighttime visitors to drive slowly as the roads are uneven and to pack a headlamp or flashlight.

Are travelers or locals impacted by the eruption?

The latest eruption does not pose a risk to the Hawaii Island community or flights, as the lava is contained within the park’s Halemaumau crater and Kilauea’s summit caldera.

During an eruption, Pele hair – thin strands of volcanic glass – along with volcanic ash, can be brought downwind by strong winds. Residents and travelers, especially those with heart or respiratory issues or who are pregnant, are encouraged to minimize exposure.