June 27 Lava Flow Update – 3/13/15

During Hawai’i County Civil Defense’s Friday morning overflight assessment of the June 27 lava flow, the agency was unable to conduct a full survey of the flow area because of low cloud cover and poor weather conditions.

The downslope areas of the flow were observed as showing very little activity from the stalled flow front up to about 5 miles upslope.

Civil Defense said that should weather conditions clear, a more thorough assessment will be conducted.

None of the current lava activity is posing a threat to communities in the area, according to officials. Civil Defense, along with Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, will continue to monitor conditions and inform the public of any changes.

Very light smoke conditions were reported Friday morning as a light west wind was blowing smoke in an east direction.

During its overflight, Civil Defense also observed some burning activity, however, the burning was limited to smoldering trees and vegetation along the flow pad. Smoke conditions, as usual, may increase and those who are sensitive are advised to take necessary precautions.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense lava flow map, as of March 13 at 7 a.m. Civil Defense image.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense lava flow map, as of March 13 at 7 a.m. Civil Defense image.

This photo, taken March 13, shows a view from the south flow margin, looking down slope towards Hwy 130, Pahoa Marketplace, and Apaa Street. Hawai’i County Civil Defense photo.