Impact of the 2018 Kilauea Eruption: Extent and Economic Implications

The 2018 Kilauea eruption, one of the most destructive and visibly impactful volcanic events in recent history, affected not just the immediate vicinity of the eruption site, but also a broader swath of towns and communities across the island of Hawaii. The eruption, known for its dramatic lava flows and toxic gas emissions, not only disrupted local lives but also had significant economic implications for the affected areas.

Direct Impact of the Eruption

The eruption of Kilauea in 2018 caused widespread destruction, with over 80 houses destroyed in and around the town of Pahoa. The destruction was not limited to Pahoa alone; the disaster extended to surrounding regions, impacting various small housing projects and several communities. Specifically, the area including the Lelani Estates housing project faced the most severe damage, with residents experiencing exposure to toxic gases like sulfur dioxide (SO2).

Towns Affected by the Eruption

Pahoa: The town suffered the most direct and visible damage, with several homes and structures destroyed by lava flows and toxic gas emissions. The entire area around Pahoa was affected, with numerous road closures and infrastructure damage. Kona: While Kona itself was not directly impacted by the lava flows, the region experienced a significant drop in tourism due to the ongoing volcanic activity. This downturn had an economic impact on the local businesses and services catering to tourists. Western Slopes (Lelani Estates): Houses in the Lelani Estates were particularly affected by high levels of volcanic gases, leading to immediate concern and health issues among residents. Thankfully, these gases dissipated, reducing the threat.

Economic Implications

While the direct damage to property and infrastructure was immense, the economic impact of the 2018 Kilauea eruption extended far beyond the immediate destruction. The affected areas faced challenges in rebuilding and reviving local businesses.

Surprisingly, the economic situation for some areas suffered a mixed outcome. In Hilo, for instance, the economy was disrupted due to the disruption of local businesses and tourism. However, this disruption also led to a unique economic opportunity for other islands. Tourists redirected their travel plans to regions unaffected by the eruption, such as the neighboring islands of Maui and the Big Island's other regions, resulting in a boost to the tourism industry in these areas.

Impact on Tourism and Local Businesses

The event significantly impacted the tourism industry, as visitors were discouraged from visiting the heavily affected areas. This resulted in a decline in tourism revenue for those regions, particularly in the Kona coastline. However, the redirection of tourist activity to other regions of the island served as a form of economic support for those areas, potentially leading to a net positive impact.

Long-Term Economic Recovery

Long-term economic recovery efforts are ongoing, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure and supporting local businesses. The government and various organizations are working together to provide aid and incentives for those affected to invest in sustainable development. This includes support for eco-tourism and agricultural projects, which can help to diversify the local economy.

Conclusion

The 2018 Kilauea eruption was a catastrophic event, affecting not just the immediate vicinity of the eruption, but also the wider regions of Hawaii. The economic implications were complex, with some areas suffering direct damage and others experiencing an unexpected economic boost. As the region continues to recover, the focus remains on sustainable economic development, ensuring that the affected communities can rebuild and thrive in the face of future challenges.