State Closes Maui Parks and Trails Ahead of Flossie

Rain was reported over the windward Central Maui area at ʻĪao Valley State Park as Maui awaits the impacts of Tropical Storm Flossie. Photo by Wendy Osher, 7/28/13.

By Wendy Osher

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife announced the closure this morning of state parks and trails on Maui as the effects of Tropical Storm Flossie near the island.

“We advise that hikers, campers or hunters should avoid trails, streams and back-country areas under these conditions,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson in a department press release.

“Due to the high surf and heavy rains that may occur under storm conditions the public is urged to avoid shorelines and areas near streams,” he said.

Maui Park and Trail Closures Include:

• Kula Forest Reserve;
• Makawao Forest Reserve;
• ʻĪao Valley State Monument Park;
• Waiʻānapanapa State Park; (Maui Police also advise that as of 10:17 a.m. 7/29/13: Honokalani Road in Hana is closed to the public and is only open to residential traffic.)
• Mākena State Park; and
• Polipoli State Park.
• Haleakalā National Park will be also be closed until Wednesday, July 31,  at 11:59 p.m. due to storm conditions caused by Tropical Storm Flossie. For NPS updates, the public can call (808) 572-4400.

Also, the National Park Service is reportedly clearing people from the Kīipahulu area of the park with plans to have the area closed by 11:30 this morning.

Other state parks and trails are also closed on Hawaiʻi Island and Oʻahu including the following:

Hawaiʻi Island Park and Trail Closures:

• ʻAinapō trail and cabin;
• Pololū trail;
• Waimanu trail and campground;
• Hāpuna Beach State Recreational Area (including Hāpuna and Waialea sections)
• Kīholo State Park Reserve
• Kekaha Kai State Park (including Manini owali (Kua Bay) and Mahaiula sections)
• Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
• Lapakahi State Historical Park

Kauaʻi Island Park and Trail Closures:

• Kalalau Trail in the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

State officials say the closures will remain in effect until staff can inspect the condition and safety of the trails once the storm system has passed.  DLNR is also advising the public to avoid entering forest areas on all islands, starting today.

“Storm conditions can trap recreationalists by blocking trails and roads from flash floods and falling trees. Falling rocks, falling trees and landslides pose additional threats to people in the forest reserves,” said DLNR officials.