Due to the recent lava flow around Kalapana, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources on Friday closed adjacent state lands to the northeast of the flow.

Signs have been posted at various access points on the state land warning the public of the closure.

The public is asked to respect the signs for their safety and not trespass.

"The state has the utmost concern for the safety and welfare of the people wishing to view the lava flow and therefore feels it is in the best interest of the public to close these areas," said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson. "We are directing people to the Hawaii County's new lava viewing area at the end of Kalapana road (Highway 130)."