Preparations Underway For Tropical Storm Felicia

Parks in the Hawaiian Islands are preparing for the impacts of Tropical Storm Felicia. As of yesterday afternoon, Felicia’s center was located about 235 miles east-northeast of Hawai‘i Island. The storm continues to move westward toward Hawaii  at 12 mph. On this track, the center of Felicia is expected to reach the islands sometime today. A tropical storm watch is in effect for the islands of Maui (site of Haleakala National Park), Kaho‘olawe, Lana‘i, Moloka‘i (site of Kalaupapa National Historical Park), and O‘ahu (site of World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument). Felicia packs maximum sustained winds near 45 mph with higher gusts. A large ocean swell generated by Felicia is already affecting coastlines across the state. Two reports have been received on preparations:

• Hawaii Volcanoes NP – Due to the potential severe weather hazard posed by tropical storm Felicia, Hawai‘i Volcanoes closed all backcountry trails and campsites on Sunday. As a precaution, a dozen volunteers were also pulled from four beaches where they spend their days and nights monitoring the nesting of endangered Hawksbill turtles.
• Haleakala NP – Hosmer Grove will be closed to all uses, including camping.  All beach access points in Kipahulu will be closed, as will to all trails and backcountry. Park staff will continue to monitor the situation throughout the course of the event.  If conditions necessitate, the park may put more closures into effect. Park management advises that the safest action would be for visitors to come the park after the storm passes