Civil Defense Update on Leilani Estates Eruptions

This is a Civil Defense update for Sunday May 6, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory confirms that active venting of lava and hazardous fumes continues in Leilani Estates Subdivision. Since the onset of this eruption, a total of 10 fissures have emerged, and 26 homes have been destroyed (it has been reported to be 30 homes at other sources).

Due to the eruption, the following are issued:

• Conditions permitting, Leilani Estates residents will be allowed to continue evacuation to check on their property from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day until further notice.
• Authorities on scene will determine what areas will be safe for you to enter. Please be aware that because of unstable conditions that involve toxic gas, earthquakes and lava activities, lines of safety can change at any time. You must be prepared to leave areas if required.
• Hawai‘i Electric Light Company is working to try to keep power online as best as possible.  Please be aware that HELCO strongly requires all residents and responders to treat all downed lines as live. Under no circumstances are you to approach or touch downed lines.
• The Department of Water Supply are working to establish a temporary bypass waterline to restore water service to the makai lower Puna areas of Pohoiki, Vacationland and Kapoho.  A water truck is located near the Vacationland mailboxes for public use. We will keep you updated on this progress.
• No access is allowed at this time for residents of Lanipuna Gardens due to dangerous volcanic gases.
• Please, the residents of Leilani need your help. This is not the time for sightseeing. You can help tremendously by staying out of the area.
• Department of Education announced Pahoa High, Intermediate and Elementary will be open tomorrow. Kua O Ka La, Hawai‘i Academy of Arts and Sciences, Nawahiokalaniopu’u and Ke Ana La’ahana are closed tomorrow.
• The Hawai‘i County Police Department and the Prosecutor’s Office have established a policy of zero tolerance towards looting or vandalism.  Under Emergency Provisions, any looting or vandalism will be treated as a felony.

The residents of Leilani Estates are going through a very difficult time. We ask for your understanding.  We ask for your help.

County, State, and Federal partners continue to monitor the situation. You will be informed of any conditions that affect your safety.