Noon Update: Civil Defense on Lava Activity

UPDATE: Monday, May 21, 2018, 12 Noon

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that eruptive lava activity at multiple fissures continues with two flows entering the ocean. Fissures continue to de-gas and produce large amounts of sulfur dioxide.

From Lower East Rift Zone. USGS Webcam shot on May 21, 2018 at 12:11 p.m. (Click to enlarge)

Due to current volcanic activity, the following information is provided for your awareness:

• Residents and visitors in lower Puna, south of the Lower East Rift Zone, should be prepared to leave the area with little to no notice due to gas or lava inundation. Take action necessary to prepare ahead of time.
• Gas levels remain high. Take actions to limit further exposure.

Due to unsafe conditions on roadways, the following policies are in effect:

• Kalapana and Kapoho Roads are open to residents only. Identification is required.
• Highway 137 is closed to all traffic between Kamaili Road and Pohoiki Road.
• Kamaili Road is closed to all thru traffic. No stopping, this is a high sulfur dioxide area.
• Everyone is asked to stay out of the area.

Due to the lava entry at the ocean, the following policies are in effect:

• Access to the area is prohibited due to the laze hazard.
• Stay away from any ocean plume since it can change direction without warning.
• The U.S. Coast Guard is actively monitoring the ocean entry area and enforcing a 300 meter standoff zone. Only permitted tour boats are allowed in the area.

Original Post:

This is a Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Message for Monday, May 21, 2018, at 8:30 a.m.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that eruptive lava activity at multiple fissures continues with two flows entering the ocean.

Due to the volcanic activity the following information is provided for your awareness:

• Gas levels remain high. Take actions to limit further exposure.
• All schools are currently open this morning.
• County, state and federal officials are working together to monitor the situation and take action to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Due to hazardous conditions from lava and fires, the following policies are in effect:

• Highway 137 is closed to all traffic between Kamaili Road and Pohoiki Road.
• Kamaili Road is closed to all thru traffic. No stopping, this is a high sulfur dioxide area.
• Everyone is asked to stay out of the area.

Due to the lava entry at the ocean, the following policies are in effect:

• Access to the area is prohibited due to the laze hazard.
• Stay away from any ocean plume. The plume travels with the wind and can change direction without warning.
• The U.S. Coast Guard is actively monitoring the area. Only permitted tour boats are allowed in the area.