(USGS) The opening phases of fissure eruptions are dynamic. Additional vents and new lava outbreaks may occur. The fissure in Leilani Estates (as of 6:00 p.m.) was about 150 m (164 yards) long.
(BIVN) – Scientists have issued a new Volcanic Activity Notice as an eruption has commenced in the Leilani Estates subdivision in the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea Volcano.
Shortly before 5 pm, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Obseravtory says lava was confirmed at the surface in the eastern end of the subdivision. Hawaii County Civil Defense, which reported the eruption occurred at in the area of Mohala Street, was on the scene and “coordinating needed response including evacuation of a portion of the Leilani subdivision.”
By 5:40 p.m. that civil defense message was changed to “all residents in Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens Subdivisions are required to evacuate.”
(USGS) White, hot vapor and blue fume emanated from an area of cracking in the eastern part of the subdivision. Spatter began erupting shortly before 5:00 p.m. HST. Lava was confirmed at the surface in the eastern end of the subdivision, in the areas of Mohala and Leilani Streets.
The Pahoa Regional Community Center near the new Pahoa Regional Park is open for shelter, as well as the Kea’au Community Center for additional shelter needs.
(USGS) Areas downslope of the erupting vent are at risk of lava inundation. At this time, the general area of the Leilani Estates subdivision appears at greatest risk. Hawai‘i County Civil Defense is on scene and coordinating needed responses, including evacuation of the Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens subdivisions.
In its Volcanic Activity Notice, the Current Volcano Alert Level was upgraded to WARNING. It was previously at WATCH.
(USGS) Residents of the lower Puna District should remain alert, review individual, family, and business emergency plans, and watch for further information about the status of the volcano.
by Big Island Video News
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STORY SUMMARY
LEILANI ESTATES, Hawaii - The USGS is tracking the eruption that commenced in the Leilani Estates subdivision Thursday evening in the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea Volcano.