June 27 Lava Flow Update – 11/12/14

The three breakouts of the June 27 lava flow that have continuously been watched closely since the early part of the week continue to remain active and are advancing, according to Hawai’i County Civil Defense Wednesday morning.

One of the breakouts that has been nearing the transfer station had entered the facility’s rear driveway area Tuesday and continues to fill the low area surrounding the center of the transfer station. As a result, burning is occurring but is limited to asphalt.

Burning in areas of the other two breakouts, one in the area of the cemetery below Apa’a Street and the other .3 miles upslope of Apa’a Street, is limited to vegetation.

Despite their close proximity to the transfer station and the initial home impacted Nov. 10, the breakouts do not currently pose a threat to residents in the area.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists conducted a helicopter overflight early Wednesday morning to assess the status of the flow.

During that overflight, HVO was able to confirm that the leading edge of the flow has still not advanced past where it stalled on Oct. 30, 170 yards above Pahoa Village Road.

According to Civil Defense, smoke conditions Wednesday morning remain moderate to heavy as light trade winds continue to blow smoke in a south-southwest direction towards Leilani and lower Puna.

Since the smoke conditions have the possibility of increasing, it is advised that individuals who live downwind and have a history of respiratory conditions take necessary precautions.

HVO also made note in a Wednesday morning release that inflation at the summit continued through Tuesday but switched to deflation early Wednesday morning. Additionally, the surface height of the lava lake in the overlook vent fluctuated over the past day, dropping slightly due to spattering.

Residents in the down slope area of the flow projected path continue to remain on an evacuation advisory and will continue to be kept informed of the flow status.

The road closure of Pahoa Village Road remains and accesses to businesses in Pahoa can be made by traveling into town through the Highway 130 and Highway 132 intersection.

Operations around the clock by Civil Defense and public safety personnel will continue as they maintain a watchful eye on the flow and ensure public safety.