Increasing wildfire conditions have led to some road closures at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park/NPS

Dry conditions across national parks in the Western third of the country aren't entirely unique, as concerns over wildfire have led to some road closures at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

Park staff say parts of Mauna Loa Road and Hilina Pali Road have been closed to motorized vehicles until further notice.

"Despite ample rainfall in other parts of East Hawaiʻi, Hilina Pali Road has only received about half an inch of rain since June 1," the park reported. "Dry grasses and shrubs along the road exacerbate the fire danger. Hilina Pali Road will be closed to motorists from the Kulanaokuaiki Campground to the Hilina Pali Lookout. Similar conditions were observed on Mauna Loa Road, which will also be closed to vehicles from the gate at Kīpukapuaulu to the Mauna Loa Lookout at 6,662 feet."

Along with the road closures, the park has banned open fires at the Nāmakanipaio campground, Kīpukapuaulu picnic area, and Kilauea Military Camp until further notice. Propane or gas cooking stoves are permitted.

“Staying safe while protecting the natural and cultural resources of the park is our top priority,” said Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Fire Management Officer Greg Funderburk. “Fire danger indexes in both areas are above the 90th percentile and any ignitions that occur would be difficult to suppress and likely to result in a large fire.” 

Pedestrians and bicyclists may continue to use both roads, and backcountry permit holders will be provided access to trailheads.

On average, human-caused wildfires make up 98 percent of all wildfire occurrences in Hawaiʻi annually, according to the park. Many of these wildfires occur in proximity to roadways, communities and recreational areas, posing considerable threats to public safety.