Memorial Day Aloha Aina Education at Kapoho

Today, the group Kupono organized an educational post located at 'four corners' to inform visitors looking for the beach on the potential hazards and cultural sites in the area (like Pu'u Kukae). Cape Kumukahi is the eastern most point in all of Hawaii, and is where the sun first rises on the islands everyday. The point hold cultural significance, and also represents a navigational landmark, the Kumukahi lighthouse, which has avoided two significant nearby lava flows since it was built. Following the end of the 2018 eruption, the area has been effectively cut off by roughly 700ft of lava covering the upper section of Lighthouse Road. In the last year and a half, two trails were established, one trail being suitable for ATVs. There are no lifeguards on duty and the currents along the beach is fierce, creating hazards that might not be apparent for those unfamiliar with the area. On May 4th, 2020, the County Department of Public Works installed a concrete barricade at the trail head to prevent vehicles from traversing the rough road over the lava. That barricade lasted less than 24 hours before it was removed. Now the barricade that blocked access to the trail has been relocated across the street from where it was placed. MAP MADE WITH DATA FROM USGS, AND COH.