June 27 Lava Flow Update – 11/20/14

Hawai’i County Civil Defense’s Thursday morning assessment continues to show very little activity along the down slope breakouts of the June 27 lava flow. Additionally, no advancement has been noted since Saturday.

Lack of activity down slope of the crack system does not mean the entire flow is inactive. Civil Defense noted numerous breakouts and flows in the areas from the vent to the crack system. Activity in those areas is an indication that lava remains in the system.

Currently, the nearest surface flow activity and surface breakouts are approximately 4 miles upslope of Apa’a Street in the area of the former geothermal well pad site.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory noted Thursday morning that Kilauea’s summit showed an increase in rate of deflation beginning Wednesday afternoon. The level of the summit lava at Halema’uma’u Crater has lowered slightly

Additionally, HVO noted that geologists plan to investigate the lower part of the crack system on foot Thursday afternoon, weather permitting.

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

The road closure of Pahoa Village Road between Apa’a Street and Post Office Road continues. Civil Defense noted “that every consideration is being given to the reopening of the road as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Businesses and commercial areas in Pahoa remain accessible, both through Post Office Road and through the Pahoa Village Road, Highway 130 and Highway 132 intersection.