While Kīlauea's current eruption captivates, Maui Now's recent "Volcano Watch" article shifts focus to the 2022 Maunaloa eruption. This serves as as a sober reminder of the ever-present geological forces shaping the Hawaiian Islands and highlights the need for preparedness in the face of natural events. Understanding volcano activity is crucial for businesses, particularly those in tourism, infrastructure, and real estate. Ignoring these natural events is not an option for Hawaii businesses. Prudent planning and proactive measures are paramount for ensuring the safety and resilience of businesses in this dynamic environment.
The 2022 Maunaloa eruption underscores the potential for significant disruption. Ashfall, lava flows, and vog (volcanic smog) can impact air quality, transportation, and infrastructure. For the tourism sector, understanding volcanic activity allows for informed decision-making regarding visitor safety, travel advisories, and alternative activity planning. Businesses can leverage this knowledge to develop contingency plans, ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining customer confidence. For example, the recent pandemic taught Maui hospital officials the importance of being prepared for future emergencies, according to a Maui Now report.
Moreover, monitoring and communication are critical. As stated in another Maui Now article, regarding vog levels on Maui, monitoring is an essential tool when dealing with natural disasters. Access to real-time data from the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and timely updates from Civil Defense agencies enables businesses to make informed decisions and protect their assets and personnel. Public awareness campaigns can also educate residents and visitors about potential hazards and appropriate safety measures. Furthermore, the county is looking at lowering taxes for residents as property values increase, according to Maui Now.
Ultimately, Hawaii's business community must integrate volcanic risk assessment into their strategic planning. This includes diversifying business operations, investing in resilient infrastructure, and developing comprehensive emergency response plans. By embracing a proactive approach, businesses can mitigate the potential impacts of volcanic activity and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for the islands.
