Sunday’s fiery loss of a feather cloak once owned by King Kamehameha II in a Brazil museum fire might surprise — but also reminds — folks here about how far-flung Hawaiian artifacts are in the world. The cloak and a head garland were gifts from the king, also known as Liholiho, to Brazil emperor Dom Pedro, during a 1824 visit to Rio de Janeiro en route to England. The items, alas, were among the priceless artifacts destroyed when Brazil’s National Museum went up in flames this week.

Historic Hawaiian items are spotted throughout the world, notably in England and Europe, thanks to regal trips abroad by Hawaiian monarchs in the 1800s. But a treasure trove exists in our back yard: Take time to visit and cherish the Bishop Museum.

Stay away from closed lava flows

While Hawaii County officials have removed highway checkpoints posted near lava flows, areas within 50 yards of the recent lower East Rift Zone eruption remain officially closed to the public. Even so, social media posts show people hiking across recently cooled aa, a type of lava.

A sneak peek is surely tempting, especially for residents eager to see how the shoreline has been transformed since early May. But it would be both safer and pocketbook-wise to first wait for an official all-clear. Citations issued by state conservation officers for venturing into closed areas come with the possibility of jail time and fines of up to $5,000.