Kilauea Volcano Eruption Is Also Affecting Hawaii's Tourism

The Kilauea volcano is doing more damage to Hawaii than destroying buildings and spewing volcanic smog into the air — it's also impacting the island's economy.

CNN reports the week after Kilauea erupted on May 3, the island lost about $1.5 million. But that number only includes about 15 percent of the island's hotel and activity managers who responded to a poll. 

The executive director of the Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau told CNN the volcano isn't just the Big Island's No. 1 attraction, "it's the state's No. 1 attraction." He said when it shuts down, "there's a direct impact on the spending in that area and the island altogether."

As of May 14, two-thirds of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was closed because of "ongoing seismic activity" and other hazards. The park reportedly sees more than 2 million visitors every year.

Hawaii's Tourism Authority said the volcanic activity is limited to a remote area on Hawaii's east side. It also said tourists who have already booked or are planning a vacation to Hawaii should know their vacation won't be affected, but they should stay out of areas closed to the public for their own safety. 

Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.