June 27 Lava Flow Update – 12/28/14

The June 27 lava flow that was stalled for nearly five days and began advancing again Saturday continues to move sluggishly.

According to Hawai’i County Civil Defense’s Sunday morning overflight, the flow has advanced about 10 yards since Saturday afternoon. Widening at the flow front was noted, and currently the front is about 30 yards wide.

The leading edge of the flow is about 0.4 miles, or 690 yards, from the Pahoa Marketplace and about 0.6 miles, approximately 1,050 yards from the intersection of Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory web cameras and Civil Defense have noted various activity and breakouts continuing to occur upslope along both margins of the flow. At the current time, none of the activity is posing an immediate threat to communities in the area. Civil Defense, along with HVO personnel, will continue to monitor flow advancement and activity and keep residents and businesses downslope informed.

Civil Defense observed moderate smoke and vog conditions Sunday morning as light variable winds were causing smoke and vog to settle throughout the eastern area of Puna and into Hilo. Officials advise that individuals who are sensitive or have a history of respiratory issues take necessary precautions and remain indoors.

According to HVO, inflationary tilt began in Kilauea’s summit at about 5 p.m. on Saturday. Usual fluctuations associated with these changes have been observed.

Railroad Avenue remains open. Motorists may use the road to become familiar with it and the traffic flow. It is advised that drivers on the road remain on the designated route and comply with the posted speed limit.

At the present time, Highway 130 remains open and there is no anticipated road closure.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow taken on Dec. 26. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.