Western yellowjacket wasps are currently swarming in areas of Haleakala National Park, including the base of Sliding Sands trail and Kapalaoa Cabin. Yellowjackets are aggressive and may sting without warning. They are attracted to water, meat, sweets (both food and drink) and sweet-smelling perfume, cologne and sunscreen. They may swarm around people who stop for a snack or meal. Yellowjackets sting repeatedly. Do not swat at these wasps — this will only make them more aggressive. If wasps are swarming around you, put away any food or drink and walk calmly away from the swarm. Stings can be very painful and may cause anaphylactic shock in some individuals. Visitors who are allergic to wasp or bee stings are asked to carry necessary medications and consider not visiting problem areas. If a serious reaction occurs, call 911 and go immediately to the nearest medical emergency facility. Yellowjackets are an introduced species established on Maui during the 1970s. In addition to being human pests, the yellowjackets are a threat to Native Hawaiian ecosystems by preying on native insects.
HALEAKALA — Due to dry conditions, open fires are discouraged at Hosmer Grove Campground and Haleakala National Park until further notice.
Visitors are being educated about the current fire dangers caused by Maui’s prolonged drought, and they are asked to cook their food on self-contained stoves or NPS-designated grills.
The park thanks visitors and campers for their help in keeping the area safe.