USGS photo The County of Hawai`i proclaimed January 2010 Volcano Awareness Month. Throughout the month, park rangers, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists, and University of Hawaii educators will sponsor guided hikes, evening talks, and other programs that highlight the importance of understanding and respecting the volcanoes on which we live. For program information, go to https://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/ From the coast of Kilauea to the nearly 14,000’ summit of Mauna Loa, Hawai‘i Volcanoes encompasses two of the world’s most active volcanoes—volcanoes whose inner stirrings will not be ignored. Park managers work hand-in-glove with USGS scientists who constantly monitor these mighty mountains. We cooperate with county agencies in emergency planning and response. And we welcome countless visitors who come from near and far with curiosity and awe for the power of this land. We encourage visitors to become aware through their own perceptions and experience. By nature, volcanoes can be physically hostile. However, volcanic environments forge cherished and lasting memories. Throughout the park, trails descend into craters and lava tubes; loop around spatter ramparts and sulfur banks; and cross pahoehoe flows dotted with stands of lava trees. This is a place to feel the heat, smell the brimstone, and hear the earth rumble and crack. We encourage visitors to become aware through knowledge gained by information. The invitations out to join hikes, attend evening programs, and stay updated and informed at https://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/kilaueastatus.php. The saying, “Stay Alert, Stay Alive” underscores the need for all to quickly recognize a volcanic hazard and respond appropriately—to be vigilant and watch out for what is dangerous or potentially so. We encourage visitors to become aware through the wisdom of Hawai`i’s first people. For Native Hawaiians, the volcano is wahi kapu, a sacred place. When volcanoes erupt, the land trembles, the sky is afire, and ash and glass rain down. We follow in the footsteps of the ancients and heed their caution … e nihi ka hele, walk carefully! We invite everyone to join in celebration of Volcano Awareness Month. Hawai‘i Volcanoes is, after all, a place to be aware, to be very aware. |
Last updated: February 28, 2015