June 27 Lava Flow Evening Update – 10/28/14

A Tuesday evening update from Hawai’i County Civil Defense identified that the June 27 lava flow had advanced approximately 45 yards since 1:30 p.m.

The front of the lava flow is 370 yards from Pahoa Village Road, continuing movement in a northeast direction.

Advancement of the flow in terms of rate has been very sporadic and inconsistent over the past few days, but currently, it is averaging about 10-15 yards per hour.

The flow has entered a residential property.

According to an update from Hawaiian Volcano Observatory at about 6 p.m. Tuesday, the flow width measured about 55 yards at the leading edge. Sections of the flow measure 165 yards wide in areas immediately upslope.

New breakouts have occurred along margins of the flow.

HVO also noted that portions of the flow continue to inflate by as much as 2 meters as new fresh lava was delivered to the advancing flow front.

Smoke conditions remain moderate with moderate trade winds from the northeast pushing the smoke in a south-southwest direction.

Burning in the area presently involves a variety of materials, including tires, and smoke conditions have the possibility to increase in some areas.

Residents who are down wind that have a history of respiratory issues are advised to take necessary precautions and to remain indoors.

Civil Defense will issue additional health advisories, should it be necessary.

The current location, direction, and advancement of the flow has placed residents in the flow path on an evacuation advisory.

Those residents who live downslope of the flow will continue to be kept informed of the flow status and advancement.

Road closures in the area will remain in effect. Currently, Pahoa Village Road is closed between Apa’a Street and the Post Office Road.

Motorists driving along Highway 130 near the Post Office Road intersection should slow down and use extra caution.

Civil Defense also asks that residents of the restricted areas do not bring unauthorized people into the restricted area.

Around the clock observation of flow activity will continue to be maintained by Civil Defense and public safety personnel.