Department of Land and Natural Resources

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES
News Release

NEIL ABERCROMBIE GOVERNOR

WILLIAM J. AILA JR, CHAIRPERSON

For Immediate News Release July 27, 2013

DLNR CLOSES BIG ISLAND TRAILS
AS TROPICAL STORM FLOSSIE NEARS

Hikers, campers, hunters on all islands urged to avoid
forest areas due to weather-related hazards

HONOLULU —  Due to the expected impacts of Tropical Storm Flossie, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife on the island of Hawaii is closing the Waimanu trail and campground, Pololu trail, and the Ainapo trail and cabin effective immediately.

High winds and heavy rains are expected to be associated with the storm system, and public safety concerns are warranted. This closure will stay in effect until staff can inspect the condition and safety of the trails once the storm system has passed.
For further information contact the  DOFAW Hilo Office (808)974-4221.

DLNR is also advising the public to avoid entering forest areas on all islands, starting on Monday as tropical storm Flossie arrives in the Hawaiian islands. 

Forecasts of sustained high winds of 35 miles an hour or more, as well as heavy rain can make for hazardous road and trail conditions.

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.

“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.The public is advised to monitor local news and weather broadcasts for further updates.

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For more information, news media may contact:  

 
Deborah Ward, 
DLNR Public Information Specialist  
Phone: (808) 587-0320