Is It Safe to Travel to the Big Island Right Now?
With its stunning volcanoes, lush rainforests, and pristine coastlines, the Big Island of Hawaii has long been a popular tourist destination. But in recent years, the island has experienced a number of natural disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. This has led many people to wonder whether it is still safe to travel to the Big Island.
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. While there are certainly some risks associated with traveling to the Big Island, there are also a number of precautions that you can take to minimize these risks. In this blog post, we will discuss the current safety situation on the Big Island and provide tips for staying safe while traveling there.
What Are the Risks of Traveling to the Big Island?
The biggest risk to visitors to the Big Island is natural disasters. The island is located in a seismically active area, and it is prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. In recent years, the island has experienced a number of these events, including:
- In 2018, Hurricane Lane made landfall on the Big Island, causing widespread damage.
- In 2019, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake shook the island, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure.
- In 2020, the Kilauea volcano erupted, destroying hundreds of homes and businesses.
While these events are rare, they can have a significant impact on the island. If you are planning to travel to the Big Island, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to stay safe.
How Can You Stay Safe While Traveling to the Big Island?
There are a number of things you can do to stay safe while traveling to the Big Island. These include:
- Be aware of the weather forecast. Before you travel to the Big Island, check the weather forecast and be prepared for rain, wind, and flooding.
- Be prepared for earthquakes. Earthquakes can happen at any time on the Big Island. If you feel an earthquake, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck with your arms, and wait for the shaking to stop.
- Be aware of volcanic activity. The Big Island is home to several active volcanoes. If you are planning to visit a volcano, be aware of the risks and follow the instructions of park rangers.
- Be prepared for hurricanes. Hurricanes can cause significant damage to the Big Island. If a hurricane is approaching, follow the instructions of local officials and evacuate to a safe area.
By following these tips, you can help to minimize the risks of traveling to the Big Island. However, it is important to remember that no place is completely safe from natural disasters. If you are concerned about the risks, you may want to consider postponing your trip until a later date.
What Are the Latest Travel Advisories for the Big Island?
The U.S. Department of State currently has a Level 2 travel advisory for the Big Island. This means that visitors should exercise increased caution due to crime, natural disasters, and other risks. The advisory also notes that visitors should be aware of the risks of volcanic activity and should follow the instructions of park rangers when visiting volcanoes.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority also has a number of travel advisories for the Big Island. These advisories provide information on recent natural disasters and other events that could affect visitors. Visitors should check the Hawaii Tourism Authority website for the latest travel advisories before planning their trip.
Is It Worth It to Travel to the Big Island Right Now?
Whether or not it is worth it to travel to the Big Island right now depends on your individual risk tolerance and travel preferences. If you are concerned about the risks of natural disasters, you may want to consider postponing your trip until a later date. However, if you are prepared to take precautions and are willing to accept a certain level of risk, the Big Island can be a rewarding destination. The island offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. With a little planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to the Big Island.
FAQs About Traveling to the Big Island
Q: Is it safe to swim in the ocean on the Big Island?
A: Yes, it is generally safe to swim in the ocean on the Big Island. However, there are some areas where the currents can be strong, so it is important to be aware of the conditions before you get in the water.
Q: Can I drink the tap water on the Big Island?
A: Yes, the tap water on the Big Island is safe to drink.
Q: What are the best ways to get around the Big Island?
A: The best ways to get around the Big Island are by car or by tour bus. There is also a public bus system, but it is not as reliable as the other options.
Q: What are the must-see attractions on the Big Island?
A: Some of the must-see attractions on the Big Island include the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Mauna Kea Observatories, and the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
Q: What are the best things to do on the Big Island?
A: Some of the best things to do on the Big Island include hiking, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and stargazing.
Q: Is the Big Island a good place to visit for families?
A: Yes, the Big Island is a great place to visit for families. There are many family-friendly activities, such as visiting the zoo, the aquarium, and the botanical gardens.
Q: Is the Big Island expensive to visit?
A: The Big Island can be expensive to visit, but there are ways to save money. For example, you can stay in hostels or guesthouses, eat at local restaurants, and take advantage of free activities.
Conclusion
The Big Island of Hawaii is a beautiful and diverse destination with something to offer everyone. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of natural disasters before you travel there. By taking precautions and following the advice of local officials, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Are you considering a trip to the Big Island? What are your biggest concerns? Let us know in the comments below!
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Emergency sirens weren’t activated ahead of deadly Maui blaze: Recap Here’s a list of major attractions that have reopened on the Big Island to help make your trip planning easier. Please remember that some businesses may have modified hours due to the pandemic. Major Attractions on Big Island that are Closed . Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm; Lapakahi State Park; Major Attractions on Big Island that are Open
