HVNP to remain open, cancel events in response to coronavirus

HOLLYN JOHNSON/Tribune-Herald file photo Visitors take in Halemaumau crater in 2018 after Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopened after being closed during the 2018 Kilauea eruption.
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Events at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are cancelled until further notice, but the park will remain open.

A notice from HVNP today announced that the park will modify its operations to comply with recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of those changes, all special events and guided programs, including hikes, walks and talks, are canceled as of today, while the Kilauea Visitor Center is also closed. However, park rangers can still be found on the Visitor Center’s lanai to answer questions about the park.

Likewise, a community event on Thursday in Pahala to discuss the future of the Great Crack has also been postponed indefinitely.

All trails and overlooks currently open will remain open for visitors.

“The (National Parks Service) urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick,” the announcement read.

The park will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and will notify the public of any changes.