Kīlauea Crater Trails Closed After 200+ Earthquakes Rattle Summit
HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK — Trails around the Kīlauea caldera were closed Oct. 7 after more than 200 earthquakes rattled the volcano's summit region in a seismic swarm, the National Park Service announced.
The closures affect crater-area trails as a safety precaution, with park officials warning visitors to stay clear of the caldera rim and other areas where the ground may be unstable. Rangers posted closure signs and were turning back hikers who arrived unaware of the shutdown.
Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory were monitoring the activity closely for signs of further escalation. Earthquake swarms at Kīlauea's summit often reflect the movement of magma beneath the surface, and can precede changes in eruptive activity — though scientists cautioned that swarms do not always lead to eruptions.
Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, has a long history of summit seismicity. The volcano's recent eruptive episodes have drawn visitors from around the world, making trail management during unrest a delicate balance between public safety and public access.
Park officials said the closures would remain in effect until earthquake activity subsides and trails are inspected and deemed safe. Visitors were advised to check the park's website and social media for updates before planning trips to the summit area.
The visitor center near the caldera remains open, with rangers adding extra volcano education programs.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：基拉韦厄火山口航拍。公有领域，来源：Wikimedia Commons
