Rising stream traps 50 hikers overnight

KALALAU—The Kauai Fire Department (KFD) responded to a critical emergency call on Thursday regarding 50 hikers stranded on the Kalalau Trail.

KFD reported that a little before noon on April 3, firefighters with the Hanalei Fire Station were dispatched following reports from the on-duty Battalion Chief regarding multiple hikers stranded on the far side of Hanakapiai Stream.

Emergency response teams, accompanied by Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) personnel, were promptly dispatched to the Kalalau Trail to evaluate trail conditions and provide necessary support.

Crews arrived on the scene at approximately 2:25 p.m. and confirmed that some 50 persons were stranded on the trail.

Due to elevated stream levels from the rainfall, the hikers could not cross the area safely and subsequently became stranded. Since they did not require medical assistance, they were advised to remain in place and wait for water levels to recede before attempting to cross.

Rescue personnel remained on-site with the stranded hikers throughout the overnight hours until they successfully navigated out of the Kalalau Trail on Friday morning.

KFD Fire Chief Michael Gibson issued a warning advising outdoor enthusiasts to monitor weather conditions before venturing on any hike. He thanked his team for ensuring the safety of the hikers and stated, “We strongly advise all hikers to avoid entering trail systems when inclement weather is in the forecast.”

“Flooding in stream areas can occur rapidly and without warning, putting lives at risk. We thank all the first responders and partner agencies who ensured that all the hikers made it out safely Friday morning.”

The National Weather System forecasts rain throughout the weekend. Due to ongoing safety concerns, the Kalalau Trail was closed on Friday, April 4.