HONOLULU —  The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed several state parks on Maui, O‘ahu and Kaua‘i today due to a severe winter weather system with thunderstorms and strong winds last night, and that continues to affect these islands.

“Though inconvenient, these closures are in the interest of public safety, until conditions improve and any needed repairs can be made. We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation,” said William J. Aila, DLNR Chairperson.

On the island of O‘ahu, Diamond Head State Monument and the summit trail are closed, following advice from State Civil Defense, for safety reasons, due to potential for lightning strikes at the crater’s summit.

On the island of Kaua‘i, the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park is now closed, due to damage to the Kalalau trail that was seen this morning when Kaua‘i State Parks staff and rockfall experts conducted a helicopter fly-over to check on conditions along the Napali Coast.  Since bridges on the way to the park trailhead are presently closed, state park crews will go in to make repairs after the bridges are reopened.

Polihale State Park on the island’s west side remains open. `Also, Wailua Marina was affected by runoff and mud from adjacent fields.

On the island of Maui, ‘Iao Valley State Park was reopened late this morning, after county crews cleared the park access road of large amounts of debris and rocks. Aila said, “We thank the Maui County Public Works department for their assistance to reopen the road.”

Polipoli Spring State Park will remain closed at least until the beginning of next week.  The road is still very muddy and there still is a potential for falling trees in the Kula forest reserve. Parks staff will assess conditions on Monday.

Also, Waianapanapa State Park will be closed today due to flooding, debris and fallen trees in the park, and no electricity. Hail also fell at the park last night.  Because the road to Hana is closed due to a number of landslides, Maui Parks staff will allow campers whose permits expire today to remain until the road reopens.  

Further updates will be provided as conditions change.