News Release

Most of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Will Temporarily Close for Storm Safety

News Release Date: August 13, 2026
Contact: HAVO Public Affairs

HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi – Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is planning parkwide closures ahead of Tropical Storm Lala which is forecast to bring heavy rains, flooding and strong damaging winds to Hawaiʻi Island.  

On Thursday, August 13, the following areas will close by 2 p.m.: 

•  Mauna Loa summit, Red Hill, and Mauna Loa Road past Kīpukapuaulu
•  Kīpukapuaulu remains closed due to hazard trees

Other areas will close on Friday, August 14 by 12 p.m.:  

•  The Welcome Center and the Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association store  
•  Kahuku Unit 
•  All trails and Nāhuku lava tube 
•  Tent camping at Nāmakanipaio campground
•  All backcountry sites including the coast and Pepeiao 
•  Chain of Craters Road and the Crater Rim Drive East 

What is open? Kilauea Military Camp, Volcano House and the A-frame cabins at Nāmakanipaio will remain open for registered guests only. Lodging guests must shelter in place and not recreate outdoors for everyone’s safety. 

Additional unannounced closures could occur due to the severe weather. 

Park staff will assess conditions and when safe will reopen as conditions allow. Visitors should check the park website for alerts.

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