Island of Hawaii Businesses Face Immediate Disruption Risk from Kilauea Ashfall Advisory

Executive Brief

An ashfall advisory is now in effect for the Island of Hawaii following recent Kilauea activity, posing immediate risks to tourism operations and potentially impacting residents and remote workers. Businesses must prepare for service disruptions and health advisories. Tourism operators should monitor flight cancellations and advise guests on safety protocols; small businesses should implement health precautions for staff and customers.

• Tourism Operators: Expect flight delays/cancellations, potential visitor cancellations, and the need for guest advisories.
• Residents & Remote Workers: Potential respiratory irritation and reduced outdoor activity.
• Small Businesses: Possible operational disruptions due to weather and potential closures.
• Action: Implement health and safety protocols immediately and monitor advisories.

The Change

Following recent eruptive activity from Kilauea, the National Weather Service, in coordination with the Hawaii County Civil Defense, has issued an ashfall advisory for portions of the Island of Hawaii. This advisory is a precautionary measure intended to alert residents and visitors to potential hazards associated with volcanic ash, such as respiratory irritation, damage to electronics, and disruption to transportation. Specific impact zones and intensity will vary based on wind patterns and the ongoing volcanic activity. The advisory necessitates an immediate review of operational continuity plans for businesses in affected areas.

Who's Affected

Tourism Operators (Hotels, Tour Companies, Vacation Rentals)

• Visitor Safety & Experience: Ashfall can lead to reduced visibility and respiratory issues, impacting outdoor activities like hikes, helicopter tours, and beach excursions. Hotels may need to provide air filters or advise guests to stay indoors.
• Travel Disruptions: Volcanic ash is a significant hazard to aircraft. Airlines may delay or cancel flights to and from airports on the Island of Hawaii, leading to booking cancellations and revenue loss.
• Reputational Risk: Failure to adequately inform guests or prepare for ashfall impacts can lead to negative reviews and damage to brand reputation.

Small Business Operators (Restaurants, Retail, Service Providers)

• Operational Disruptions: Staff may face difficulties commuting to work. In severe cases, localized ash accumulation could necessitate temporary business closures for safety and cleanup.
• Health Precautions: Businesses should be prepared to implement health advisories for employees and customers, potentially including providing masks or improving indoor air quality.
• Supply Chain Impacts: While less common for ashfall advisories unless very severe, disruptions to transportation can affect the delivery of goods and supplies.

Remote Workers & Residents

• Health Impacts: Volcanic ash can cause respiratory irritation, eye irritation, and aggravate existing health conditions like asthma. Individuals are advised to limit outdoor exposure when ashfall is significant.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Ash can clog air filters in vehicles and homes, and potentially disrupt sensitive electronic equipment. Power outages are also a possibility during severe ashfall events.
• Mobility Restrictions: Driving in ash-covered areas can be hazardous due to reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.

Real Estate Owners

• Property Maintenance: Volcanic ash can accumulate on roofs, in gutters, and on outdoor surfaces, requiring extra cleaning and maintenance to prevent damage or water intrusion.
• Tenant Communication: Property managers must proactively communicate advisories, safety recommendations, and any potential impacts on utilities or access to tenants.

Second-Order Effects

Volcanic ash advisories, while often localized, can trigger a cascade of impacts in Hawaii's unique island economy. For instance, flight cancellations due to ashfall don't just affect the immediate tourism sector; they can lead to hotel rooms remaining empty, reducing demand for local services like restaurants and retail, and subsequently impacting the wages and employment of hospitality workers. Furthermore, if ashfall is severe enough to affect outdoor activities or resident health, it can diminish the appeal of the island for remote workers considering relocation or long-term stays, potentially slowing the growth of that sector. The need for cleanup and repair can also strain local resources and labor for small businesses already operating with tight margins.

What to Do

Tourism Operators

Action: Immediately review and activate your emergency preparedness and communication plans.

1. Monitor Advisories Closely: Stay updated on National Weather Service (NWS) and Hawaii County Civil Defense alerts. Designate a point person to track these advisories.
2. Guest Communication: Proactively inform guests about the ashfall advisory, potential impacts on travel (flights), and recommended safety measures (e.g., staying indoors, using masks if venturing out).
3. Flight Status: Advise guests to check directly with their airlines regarding flight status and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations.
4. Activity Adjustments: Be prepared to cancel or modify outdoor tours and activities based on local conditions and official advisories. Have alternative indoor activities or rescheduling options ready.
5. Health & Safety: Ensure staff are aware of health risks and can advise guests. Have basic supplies like masks available if appropriate.

Small Business Operators

Action: Implement health and safety protocols and prepare for potential disruptions.

1. Staff Safety: Communicate advisories to employees. Assess potential commuting difficulties and consider flexible work arrangements if feasible.
2. Customer Health: Advise customers on health precautions. Ensure adequate ventilation indoors, or consider providing masks if ash becomes a significant local issue.
3. Operational Continuity: Stock essential supplies. Review business interruption insurance policies and develop a plan for temporary closure if conditions worsen.
4. Cleanup Preparedness: Have cleaning supplies ready to manage ash accumulation on exterior surfaces.

Remote Workers & Residents

Action: Take precautionary health measures and stay informed.

1. Limit Outdoor Exposure: Reduce time spent outdoors, especially during peak ashfall periods. Consider wearing masks (N95 if possible) if outdoor activity is unavoidable.
2. Protect Electronics: Cover sensitive electronic equipment and vehicles outdoors if ash accumulation is expected.
3. Monitor Air Quality: Stay informed about local air quality reports and follow guidance from health authorities regarding respiratory protection.
4. Home Maintenance: Ensure air filters in HVAC systems and vehicles are clean. Be prepared for increased cleaning needs.

Real Estate Owners

Action: Communicate with tenants and prepare for property upkeep.

1. Tenant Notification: Send a clear advisory communication to all tenants about the ashfall warning, recommending safety precautions for themselves and their properties.
2. Property Inspection: Arrange for inspection of common areas and potentially individual units (with notice) for ash accumulation, particularly on roofs and in drainage systems.
3. Maintenance Planning: Schedule or prepare for necessary cleanup of ash from common areas, roofs, and gutters to prevent water damage.