June 27 Lava Flow Update – 1/12/15

The June 27 lava flow front and south margin continue to remain stalled, showing no advancement since Jan. 2. The front of the flow remains 0.5 miles from the Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road intersection.

Meanwhile, two active upslope breakouts along the north margin of the flow have shown continuous activity and various strides in movement for the past week.

Currently, the two north breakouts, which are located 1-1.5 miles upslope from the stalled flow front, have advanced about 15 yards since Sunday. Movement with the two lobes has been sporadic and distances of movement have not been consistent in the past week.

Various activity continue to occur in upslope areas, including surface activity and widening 300 yards above the flow front, and additional activity along both margins of the flow in further upslope areas including the True/Mid-Pacific geothermal well pad site.

Civil Defense noted in morning observations that none of the activity occurring poses a threat to communities in the area, but they, along with Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, will continue to keep a watchful eye on activity and continue to keep the public informed.

Both smoke and vog conditions were heavy Monday morning as a southwest wind was blowing smoke in a northeast direction over the areas of lower Puna through Hilo. As usual, these smoke conditions have the possibility of increasing and officials advise individuals who are sensitive or have a history of respiratory issues to take necessary precautions and remain indoors.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense Monday, Jan. 12 overflight at 6:30 a.m. Civil Defense photo.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense lava flow map, as of Jan. 12 at 7 a.m. Civil Defense photo.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense lava flow map, as of Jan. 12 at 7 a.m. Civil Defense photo.