Hawaii losing millions to Kilauea Volcano eruption
Gov. David Ige again stressed Hawaii’s Big Island is still open for business but there is irrefutable evidence the Kilauea Volcano eruption is hurting tourism.
The eruption is driving away millions of dollars in tourism revenue.
The National Park Service said the continuing closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is costing the island $166 million, which rises to $222 million when indirect economic impact is factored in.
About 2,000 jobs indirectly rely on tourism to the park which is the state’s top tourist destination.
Geologists said they don’t expect lava flows to subside any time soon.
Despite this Ige says tourism arrivals are still strong.
"The actual area of the eruption is a very, very small portion of Hawaii Island. Less than 1% of the land mass is actually impacted. The rest of the islands are unaffected by what’s happening at Kilauea," Ige told CNBC.
"The experts are telling us there is no danger from the eruptions to anyone outside the areas that have been evacuated."
Still, cancelations are coming in for planned vacations not just on the Big Island but right across the island chain.
Bookings for May-July are reported to be down about 50%.
At the moment officials are most concerned about the lava flow enveloping a geothermal power plant which could result in possible explosions or the release of toxic gases.
Hawaii Emergency Management Agency spokesman Thomas Travis said wells at the plant have been ‘quenched’ with cold water and the wells may be plugged for extra protection.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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