VOLCANO UPDATE: Lava Less Than Two Miles from Ocean

Paluma Pali, June 30, 2016. Photo credit: Bruce Omori of Paradise Helicopters

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports the active lava flow southeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō continues to advance across the coastal plain on the southern flank of Kīlauea.

The flow has spread about 400 yards beyond the base of the Pulama Pali above the abandoned Royal Gardens subdivision.

The lava is about 1.8 miles from the ocean.

Bright incandescence is visible from the active lava flow field, and the lava flow does not pose a threat to any community.

To maintain public safety and to preserve the emergency road or Highway 130, the County of Hawai‘i opened the emergency road to lava viewing since last week Thursday, June 30, 2016.

Vehicular traffic on the emergency road is limited to local residents and emergency vehicles, and is being monitored by security guards posted along the viewing area.

Visitors need to be aware of the following reminders:

Viewing area hours are from 3 to 9 p.m. daily, with the last car allowed to park at 8 p.m.

It is about six-mile round-trip from end of the pavement on Highway 130 to the end of the viewing area and back.

The flow can be seen starting from just beyond the parking lot all along the viewing area route.

The road is unpaved and surrounded on all sides by rough lava flows on private property.

Public access is restricted to the graded roadway and viewers are asked to please respect private property and the rights of local residents.

Restroom facilities are limited and lack running water.

All members of your party should dress appropriately with boots or sturdy, covered shoes, long pants and a hat.

Be prepared for rain, wind, sun, heat and dust exposure. Bring lots of water (1-2 liters per person), there is no potable water available. Bring a flashlight for walking at night over the rough ground.