(BIVN) – Here is the latest update from emergency officials on the volcanic eruption in Leilani Estates that began on Thursday.
- The eruption in the Leilani Estates subdivision in the lower East Rift Zone of Kīlauea Volcano that began in late afternoon ended by about 6:30 p.m. HST, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports. Lava spatter and gas bursts erupted from the fissure for about two hours, and lava spread a short distance from the fissure, less than about 33 ft. At this time, the fissure is not erupting lava and no other fissures have erupted.
- The Hawai‘i Fire Department reports extremely high levels of dangerous Sulfur Dioxide gas detected in the evacuation area. Elderly, young, and people with respiratory issues need to comply with the mandatory evacuation order and leave the area.
- All residents in Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens Subdivisions are required to evacuate.
- The Pahoa Regional Community Center near the new Pahoa Regional Park is open for shelter.
- Keaau Community Center is open for additional shelter needs.
- Residents evacuating should ensure to bring your emergency evacuation supply kit including necessary medicine, food, and necessary items for your comfort if possible.
- Emergency proclamations at the state and county level are now in effect.
- Pohoiki Road is closed from the intersection at Highway 132 up to Lanipuna Subdivision to allow evacuation efforts to proceed.
- Puna Geothermal Venture operations have shut down indefinitely until further notice. The Hawai‘i Electric Light Company expects to be able to provide sufficient power, even with geothermal plant shut down.
- Hawaii Gas Company Customers with questions should call their 24/7 hotline at (808) 935-0021.
- Two charter schools on Hawaiʻi Island will be closed tomorrow: Kua O Ka Lā New Century Public Charter School and Ka ʻUmeke Kāʻeo.
- Avoid travel to the evacuation area for everyone’s safety.
- HVO geologists are working near the fissure overnight to track additional activity that may occur, and other scientists are closely tracking the volcano’s overall activity.
by Big Island Video News10:49 pm
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STORY SUMMARY
PUNA, Hawaii - Hawaii County Civil Defense provides the latest information update in response to the volcanic eruption in Leilani Estates.