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 29, 2013

DLNR CLOSES PARKS, TRAILS, FOREST RESERVES
AS TROPICAL STORM FLOSSIE NEARS

HONOLULU – Due to the expected impacts of Tropical Storm Flossie, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ is closing the following trails, parks, and campground areas effective immediately.

“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. “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.”

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

Hawaii Island:
Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW)

• Ainapo trail and cabin
• Pololu trail
• Waimanu trail and campground

State Parks

• Hapuna Beach State Recreational Area (including Hapuna and Waialea sections)
• Kiholo State Park Reserve
• Kekaha Kai State Park (including Manini owali (Kua Bay) and Mahaiula sections)
• Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park
• Lapakahi State Historical Park

 

Maui:

Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW)

• Kula Forest Reserve
• Makawao Forest Reserve

State Parks

• Iao Valley State Monument Park
• Waianapanapa State Park
• Makena State Park
• Polipoli State Park

Kauai:
State Parks

• Kalalau Trail in the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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.

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.

For further information on DLNR facilities contact the:
Hawaii Island:
DOFAW Hilo Office (808) 974-4221
State Parks Hilo Office (808) 961-9540

Maui:
DOFAW Maui Office (808) 984-8100
State Parks Maui Office (808) 984-8109

Kauai:
State Parks Kauai Office (808) 274-3444

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For more information, news media may contact:
Laura Stevens
DLNR Education and Outreach Coordinator
Phone: (808) 587-0320