FEMA says the agency is required to review disaster assistance payments to ensure the money doesn’t duplicate other assistance, wasn’t inappropriately spent or was provided in error.

You might think a brand new black sand beach would be pristine. But microplastics have already been detected at Pohoiki in Lower Puna.

Millions of dollars are being spent to promote non-volcanic attractions, but some of them aren’t equipped to handle more visitors.

Puna Geothermal Venture has helped out by opening a road for some residents to use.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and, to a lesser extent, Haleakala National Park, are benefitting from the state-authorized program.

It includes $20 million in grants and $40 million in loans that the federal money is expected to cover.

The superheated steam is killing trees and forcing some residents from their homes, although there’s “no sign of magma.”

Mayor Harry Kim prepares to ask for far less than he initially sought. He blames the discrepancy on “a lot of miscommunication on my part.”

“They needed something to feel good about,” said Mayor Harry Kim of the locals who showed up in Pohoiki on Thursday.

Park facilities require longterm repairs after they housed Kilauea lava evacuees for more than four months.

Kilauea volcano created a dramatic new landscape including black-sand beaches. But “it’s a rough walk” to get there.

Normally the state’s most-visited tourist attraction, the park has been closed for 135 days due to the Kilauea eruption.