On Jan. 3, 2017 at approximately 3:30 p.m., a rockslide occurred at the Pools of ‘Oheʻo in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park. The unanticipated rockslide was likely caused by oversaturated soils and unusually heavy rainfall in the Kīpahulu and Hana areas. One park visitor sustained minor injuries.
To protect visitor safety, the park has closed the ‘Oheʻo Pools to visitors and they will remain closed until the area can be assessed for risk of further rockslides.
“We are keeping the pools closed out of an abundance of caution. The safety of park visitors and our employees is our primary concern," said park Superintendent Natalie Gates. She added: “with current historic rainfall, we want to emphasize that any cliffside area in the park could be dangerous. Visitors should remain on designated trails at all times."
For further information park visitors can call 572-4400, or check the park website (www.nps.gov/hale) or Facebook page.
Tags: haleakala haleakala national park kipahulu pools maui hawaii visitor safety rock slide national park service nps
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
