ICYMI: Hawaiian Toddler Saved From Plunging 400 Feet While Watching Volcano Eruption
While watching the Kīlauea eruption on Christmas night, a toddler nearly fell 400 feet at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park—saved just in time by a frantic mother. 🌐 #News #HiloHI #Hawaii #Accident
HILO, HI – A close call at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on Christmas night has left a family shaken after their toddler nearly ran off a cliff edge while watching the Kīlauea eruption in Hawaii. The child’s mother acted quickly, pulling her son back just moments before he could have fallen 400 feet. The incident occurred in a restricted area, raising serious concerns over park safety as the eruption continues to draw crowds.
A Christmas to Remember — for the Wrong Reasons
On the evening of December 25, 2024, families gathered at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park to witness the ongoing eruption of Kīlauea, which began two days earlier. The eruption drew many visitors, but for one family, the event nearly ended in tragedy.
Park officials say that while in a closed area beyond a post-and-cable barrier at the Kīlauea Overlook, a toddler wandered away from his family. In a split second, the child rushed straight toward the 400-foot cliff edge.
The child’s mother, frantic, screamed as she reached out just in time, grabbing her son mere feet from what could have been a fatal fall.
“Disaster was averted, and the shaken family departed. A Christmas to remember?” wrote park officials.
Safety Measures in Place — But Vigilance Is Key
Rhonda Loh, Superintendent of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, stressed the importance of following safety protocols while visiting.
“The hazards that coincide with an eruption are dangerous, and we have safety measures in place including closed areas, barriers, closure signs, and traffic management,” Loh said.
“Your safety is our utmost concern, but we rely on everyone to recreate responsibly. National parks showcase nature’s splendor but they are not playgrounds.”
Park rangers are urging visitors to stay on designated trails and avoid entering restricted areas. The Kīlauea Overlook, where the incident occurred, is one of the many spots marked off-limits for safety reasons. Those who ignore the warnings and venture past closure signs put themselves and others at great risk, park officials warned.
More Hazards Beyond the Cliff Edge
While the cliff posed the most immediate danger, there are other hazards visitors need to be aware of during the eruption. The park is home to towering cliffs and unpredictable terrain, making it especially important for families to keep children close and stay on marked paths.
In addition, drivers are urged to slow down and be cautious of both pedestrians and the rare nēnē (Hawaiian goose), which is currently in its breeding season and often crosses park roads.
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park continues to urge visitors to respect safety guidelines, especially as the park sees an increase in traffic during the eruption. Ensuring the safety of all visitors remains the top priority, and staying within designated areas is the best way to prevent further incidents.
RELATED TOPICS: Accidents | Hawaii
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