12:30 P.M. Update: HVO Monitoring Active Flows

UPDATE: May 19, 12:30 p.m.

This is a Civil Defense Message for Saturday, May 19 at 12 in the afternoon.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to monitor active flows: two west of Pohoiki Road and two east of Pohoiki Road. The two flows on the west of Pohoiki are moving up to 900 feet per hour.  The eastern flows are moving slowly. 

Due to the volcanic activity, the following are in effect:

• Residents in areas down rift from the flow need to stay alert and prepare for voluntary evacuation if necessary. 
• Residents are advised to stay alert to messages issued by your Civil Defense Agency.

On roads information:

• Pohoiki Road is closed.  
• Highway 132 and 130 are open to local traffic only, and present ID.
• Closure may occur at any time with no notice.

Due to ongoing ash eruption out of Halemaumau, the following areas downwind are advised:

• Take necessary precautions for ash, including measures to protect your water catchment systems.
• Stay indoors where ash is falling.

Original Post:

This is a Civil Defense Message for Saturday, May 19, 2018, at 12:30 a.m. for the areas of Upper Puna and the Ka’ū District.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kīlauea summit has occurred at 11:58 p.m.

The resulting ash plume may affect the surrounding areas.  The wind may carry the ash plume Southwest toward Volcano Village, Wood Valley, Pahala, Na‘alehu and Ocean View.

• The danger from this eruption is ash fallout.  The major response is to protect yourself from fallout.
• If you are at home, stay indoors with the windows closed.  Turn on your radio and listen for updates from authorities.
• If you are in your car, keep the windows closed.  Ash fallout may cause poor driving conditions, due to limited visibility and slippery driving conditions.  Drive with extreme caution, or pull over and park.
• After the hazard has passed, do check your home, and especially your catchment system for any impact that may affect your water quality.