June 27 Lava Flow Update – 11/13/14

Hawai’i County Civil Defense’s Thursday morning assessment determined that the three breakouts of the June 27 lava flow that have remained active over the course of the week and continue to advance.

The breakouts are located in the area of the Pahoa Cemetery below Apa’a Street, above Apa’a Street in the area upslope of the Pahoa Transfer Station, and .2 miles upslope of Apa’a Street.

Currently, the breakouts do not pose a threat to residents in the area and are being monitored closely.

At the transfer station, the flow nearby is filling up the driveway area to the rear and south side of the facility. Burning at this site involves the asphalt from the road.

The other two breakouts have burning that is limited to vegetation.

Thursday’s smoke conditions continue to be moderate to heavy as light south winds are blowing the smoke in a north-northeast direction towards Ainaloa, Hawaiian Paradise Park and Kea’au.

Over the next few days, the weather service has forecasted south winds.

As burning continues, there is the possibility that smoke conditions could worsen in some areas. Residents down wind who may have a history of respiratory issues or sensitivity should take necessary precautions and remain indoors.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory noted Thursday morning that Kilauea’s summit has begun to re-inflate, following deflation that occurred early Wednesday. Additionally, the surface of the summit lava lake at Halema’uma’u Crater was measured by scientists at 50 meters below the rim of the overlook vent.

An evacuation advisory remains for residents in the down slope areas of the flow and residents in the area will continue to be kept informed of the status and advancement rates of the flow.

Pahoa Village Road between Apa’a Street and the Post Office Road will remain closed. However, Post Office Road, which was previously made a one-lane road, has now opened as a two-lane road, according to the Hawai’i Police Department.

Around the clock observations will continue to occur in the area by Civil Defense and public safety personnel to ensure public safety.