June 27 Lava Flow Update – 12/30/14

The June 27 lava flow continues to progress towards the Pahoa Marketplace. Hawai’i County Civil Defense says that according to its Tuesday morning overflight assessment, the flow continues to extend, and although sluggish, has advanced about 40 yards since Monday morning.

At the current time, the flow is about 0.5 miles upslope from the Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road intersection and about 660 yards from the Pahoa Marketplace.

Surface breakouts above the flow front activity continue on both the north and south margins of the flow. This activity, however, does not currently pose an immediate threat to communities in the area, and Civil Defense, along with Hawaiian Volcano Observatory personnel, will continue to keep the public informed of any changes.

Both smoke and combined vog conditions were reported by Civil Defense for the third day in a row. A light south wind is blowing the smoke and vog across the entire eastern areas of Puna and through Hilo.

These conditions have the possibility of increasing and those who are sensitive or have a history of respiratory issues are advised to take necessary precautions and to stay indoors.

Railroad Avenues, which opened on Dec. 20, continues to remain open as an alternate access road. The road was opened so  motorists could familiarize themselves with the road and the traffic flow. Drivers on the road are advised to follow the designated route and abide by the posted speed limit.

At the current time, Highway 130 remains open and there is no anticipated closing of the road.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.

Overflight view of the June 27 lava flow on Dec. 29. Photo credit: Extreme Exposure/ Paradise Helicopters.