(BIVN) – Scientists say the eruption of lava and gas continues in Leilani Estates but it is “at a low level”.
“Overnight, active emission of lava and spatter at multiple fissures was minimal,” reported the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. “This is likely only a pause in activity; additional outbreaks or a resumption of activity are anticipated as seismicity continues in the area.”
Since the onset of this eruption, a total of 10 fissures have emerged, and 35 structures have been destroyed.
Today, the county announced that precautionary measures are being taken at Puna Geothermal Venture “to remove potentially flammable materials offsite.” Although the power plant is shut down and secured, the community has remained concerned over the handling of pentane, the flammable substance used as a working fluid at the power plant. PGV said last Friday that they planned to move the pentane out of the potential inundation zone, but not off the site.
Today, County officials said PGV will go forward with plans to remove the pentane from the site. The county says the removal will first require the procurement of containers designed to handle such material, which could take days.
In a 11:15 a.m. update, Hawaii County Civil Defense reported:
The County of Hawai‘i thanks Leilani Estates residents for their cooperation and patience during yesterday’s property retrieval effort.
Conditions permitting, Leilani Estates residents will be allowed to check on their property from 7 AM to 6 PM each day until further notice. Follow the instructions of the authorities on scene. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
Highway 130 is closed between Malama Street and Kamaili Road.
A community meeting will be held tonight at Pāhoa High School Cafeteria at 5:30 PM. Event information and the status of services will be shared.
Civil Defense has established a community information center at Sacred Hearts Church in Pāhoa, Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.
Hawai‘i Electric Light is working to try to keep power online. Treat all downed lines as live. Under no circumstances are you to approach or touch downed lines.
The Department of Water Supply is working to establish a temporary bypass waterline to restore water service to the areas of Pohoiki, Vacationland, and Kapoho, we will keep you updated on this progress.
A water truck for public use is located near the Vacationland mailboxes.
No access is allowed at this time for residents of Lanipuna Gardens due to dangerous volcanic gases.
Please, the residents of Leilani need our help. This is not the time for sightseeing. You can help tremendously by staying out of the area.
Department of Education announced Pāhoa High, Intermediate and Elementary schools will be open today. Kua O Ka Lā, Hawai‘i Academy of Arts and Sciences, Nāwahīokalani‘ōpu’u and Ke Ana La’ahana are closed today.
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.
Nā Leo TV will live broadcast the entire informational community meeting at Pāhoa High School. The program will air on all three of Nā Leo channels, online at naleo.tv and via the Nā Leo mobile app available on Android and Apple devices.
by Big Island Video News1:29 pm
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STORY SUMMARY
LEILANI ESTATES, Hawaii - awaiian Volcano Observatory confirms that although volcanic activity has subsided, hazardous fumes continue in Leilani Estates Subdivision.