HAWAIʻI NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi — A new eruption at Kīlauea volcano has forced temporary closures at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, as dangerous amounts of volcanic debris known as tephra fall across the summit area.

Park officials announced that the Kīlauea summit area is closed to visitors, and Highway 11 is shut down between mile markers 24 and 40 because of hazardous road conditions created by falling volcanic material.

Kīlauea Eruption Sends Lava Fountains 1,300 Feet Into the Air

The eruption began at 9:17 a.m. Tuesday, March 10, when lava fountains surged from Kīlauea’s summit.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the fountains reached heights of up to 1,300 feet, ejecting large quantities of tephra — a mix of volcanic rock, ash, and glass particles — into the air.

Light and shifting winds have spread the falling material across the summit region, nearby communities, and sections of Highway 11.

As of 2 p.m., tephra was still falling, prompting safety officials to expand closures around the eruption zone.

Park Rangers Evacuate Visitors From Summit Area

National Park Service rangers are actively evacuating visitors from the summit region of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Several park areas are currently closed, including:

  • All trails near the summit
  • Outdoor overlooks
  • Visitor areas surrounding the eruption zone

However, overnight guests at Kilauea Military Camp and Volcano House are still allowed to enter the park if they have valid reservations and identification, though they must shelter in place until conditions improve.

USGS Issues Volcano Warning for Kīlauea

At 10:54 a.m., the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory issued a Volcano Warning (RED) — the highest alert level for volcanic activity.

Although tephra may appear light and dusty, officials warn it can still pose significant risks.

Potential hazards include:

  • Eye and respiratory irritation
  • Skin abrasions from falling particles
  • Dangerous driving conditions
  • Obscured road markings
  • Vehicle skidding on loose volcanic material

Because of these risks, officials strongly advise travelers to avoid the summit region until conditions improve.

Temporary Flight Restriction Issued

A temporary flight restriction (TFR) has also been established over the eruption area to protect aircraft from volcanic ash and debris.

Airspace limitations are common during active volcanic eruptions due to the severe hazards volcanic ash poses to aircraft engines.

When Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Will Reopen

Park officials say the summit area will reopen only after the eruption ends and crews are able to safely clear roads, trails, and facilities of tephra.

Cleanup operations will focus on restoring safe driving conditions and removing volcanic debris from visitor areas.

Visitors planning trips to the park are encouraged to check the National Park Service website for updates before traveling.

Safety Tips for Visitors During Volcanic Activity

Travelers near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park should follow these precautions during volcanic events:

  • Avoid areas where tephra or ash is actively falling
  • Protect your eyes and respiratory system
  • Drive cautiously on roads covered with volcanic debris
  • Follow park ranger instructions and closures
  • Monitor official alerts from the USGS and National Park Service

Check for Park Updates

For the latest conditions, closures, and eruption updates, visit the official park website:

👉 https://www.nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes