A Christmas day outing nearly ended in tragedy when a toddler almost plunged into the Kilauea caldera at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park but was dramatically rescued by his mother.
The incident underscored the persistent dangers posed by the active volcanic conditions, which had attracted larger crowds due to a new eruption, Mail Online reported.
The family, comprising six or seven non-English speaking adults, was visiting the Kilauea Overlook in Pāhoa, Hawaii when the incident occurred. Witnesses described a harrowing scene where the child's mother intervened just as her toddler came perilously close to the edge of the caldera, which plunges about 400 feet down.
According to Jessica Ferracane, a public affairs specialist at the park who witnessed the near miss, the mother had momentarily turned away from the safety barriers before realizing her child's perilous situation. The quick action taken by the mother saved the child from a potentially fatal fall.
The park has been experiencing a significant increase in visitors following the onset of the Kilauea volcano eruption earlier in the week. The eruption led to spectacular displays of lava fountains and flows from fissures within the volcano's summit caldera, drawing curious and awe-inspired spectators from around the world.
In response to the eruption, the US Geological Survey raised the alert level to a 'code red', indicating high levels of seismic activity and the persistent threat of new fissures opening. Despite these warnings, the park felt a surge in foot traffic, drawn by the natural spectacle.
As the eruption continued, officials noted that although lava activity briefly paused midweek, the risks of toxic gases and unstable ground remained high. The park has been diligent in enforcing safety measures, but challenges persist with ensuring that all visitors comply with safety advisories.
Jessica Ferracane emphasized the importance of vigilance, especially for those visiting the park with young children: "We're always telling visitors to keep your kids close, but when you see something like that happen and somebody almost dies, it's an upsetting experience for everybody there."
Superintendent Rhonda Loh reiterated this sentiment, highlighting the inherent dangers of volcanic activity. She pointed out the numerous safety protocols in place, including barriers, closure signs, and strict traffic management to guide and protect the public. Loh stressed, "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."
"Your safety is our utmost concern, but we rely on everyone to recreate responsibly," added Loh. She further clarified that while national parks offer a glimpse into nature's splendor, they are not without risks and should not be treated lightly as playgrounds.
Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth and its eruptive history is extensive. The volcano has erupted more than 60 times since the 1800s, posing continual challenges for both scientists and park officials tasked with predicting its behavior and ensuring public safety.
The ongoing activity confined primarily to the summit caldera has seen varying degrees of volcanic manifestations, from effusive lava flows to explosive eruptions. These events have formed a complex mosaic of geological features that continue to attract scientific interest and tourism alike.
As Kilauea continues to shape the landscape, the US Geological Survey and park officials remain vigilant, continuously reassessing the hazards as the eruption progresses. Their efforts underscore the dynamic and unpredictable nature of volcanic environments and the continuous need for public caution.
