(BIVN) – Highway 132 and Highway 137 remain open for local traffic only, emergency officials say, following the eruption of a new fissure (at first thought to be number 18, but later identified to be a continuation of fissure 17) on private property near the highway on the Kalapana side.

Police Captain Samuel Jelsma gave an update at the site of the roadblock set up on Highway 132 on Sunday morning.

This Hawaii County Civil Defense message was issued shortly after:

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has verified reports a new fissure, number 18, opening up to the west, or Kalapana side, of Highway 132 on Halekamahina Loop Road in lower Puna. Lava spatter activity and gas emissions are occurring at this time. The newest fissures are on private property, do not trespass.

Due to the volcanic activity, the following are issued:

Highway 132 and Highway 137 remain open for local traffic only.

Residents of Halekamahina Road are ordered to evacuate and be on the alert for gas emissions and lava spatter.

Shelters are open at Pahoa Community Center and Kea’au Community Center. Food will be provided and the shelters are pet-friendly.

Vacation rentals in the eruption area of Lower Puna are directed to cease operations to relieve the demand for water and to reduce the area population so emergency operations can focus on residents who live in the area.

Hawaii Police Department is enforcing the Federal Aviation Administration’s Temporary Flight Restriction for lower Puna area. No helicopter or drone activity is allowed without approval.

The residents of Puna are going through a very difficult time. We ask for your help and understanding.