Kilauea volcano erupts on Hawaii Island, attracting holiday crowds

The Kilauea volcano, located on Hawaii's Big Island, has a complex relationship with tourism, particularly during its eruptive phases. Recent eruptions have drawn significant crowds to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, despite warnings about hazardous conditions such as sulfur dioxide gas and volcanic ash. The allure of witnessing an active volcano often overshadows safety concerns for many visitors. This phenomenon raises questions about the broader implications of natural disasters on tourism dynamics in regions heavily reliant on this economic sector.

Kilauea volcano on Hawaii island, also known as the Big Island, began erupting at roughly 2:20 a.m. and continued throughout the day –– bringing packed crowds to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is open to the public 24 hours a day.

The most immediate threat was from volcanic smog that could reach homes downwind, the observatory said. Such “vog” contains sulfur dioxide and can worsen symptoms for people who have conditions such as asthma, other respiratory issues or cardiovascular disease.

The area where the eruption is occurring has been closed to the public since 2007 due to hazards that include crater wall instability, ground cracking and rockfalls.

Hawaii’s Volcanoes national park encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

Kilauea also erupted in June and September this year, and with the exception of a quiet period between 1924 and 1952, it has been in eruption regularly since there have been written records. Its eruptions can last days, or go on for a year. In 2018, Kilauea erupted from May through August, destroying more than 700 homes.

Lava fountains as high as 262 feet were seen at 4:30 a.m., the agency said, and “lava bombs” and other molten material were being ejected from the crater’s floor. As of 5:30 a.m., the agency estimated that 400 acres of the caldera floor was covered in lava.

The volcano, in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, has been erupting since 1983. Its most recent eruptions were in June and September, Hon said.

The duality of Kilauea's impact on tourism illustrates a critical tension between attraction and apprehension. On one hand, the spectacle of an erupting volcano can draw crowds eager for adventure; on the other hand, it poses significant risks that can deter potential visitors. As communities navigate these challenges, ongoing dialogue regarding safety measures and responsible tourism practices becomes increasingly vital. In conclusion, understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing strategies that balance economic interests with public safety.

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Sarah H

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