(BIVN) – Emergency officials continue to monitor active flows in the lower East Rift Zone of Kilauea volcano. The two lava flows that crossed Highway 137 near MacKenzie State Park and entered the ocean overnight remained active today.
New video recorded by Mick Kalber over the lava flows while aboard a Paradise Helicopter flight. “After crossing Highway 137, both a’a and pahoehoe flows poured over the sea cliffs in great volume just south west of Pohoiki,” Kalber wrote. “Numerous fingers of lava have stretched toward the sea overnight, covering many properties, and destroying some homes, while sliding by others.”
In a 6 p.m. message, Hawaii County Civil Defense said moderate trade winds continue to cause elevated levels of sulfur dioxide in areas downwind of the vents, including Kamaili, Seaview, and Malama Ki. “Take action necessary to limit further exposure,” the county warned.
Due to hazardous conditions from lava and fires, civil defense said the following policies are in effect:
- Highway 137 is closed to all traffic between Kamaili Road and Pohoiki Road.
- Kamaili Road is closed to all thru traffic. No stopping, this is a high sulfur dioxide area.
- Everyone is asked to stay out of the area.
Due to the lava entry at the ocean, the following policies are in effect:
- Access to the area is prohibited due to the laze hazard.
- Stay away from any ocean plume. The plume travels with the wind and can change direction without warning.
- The U.S. Coast Guard is actively monitoring the area. Only permitted tour boats are allowed in the area.
County officials say an eruption community information meeting will be held at the Pahoa High cafeteria on Tuesday, May 22 at 5:30 in the evening.
by Big Island Video News6:47 pm
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STORY SUMMARY
PUNA, Hawaii - Lava continues to enter the ocean near MacKenzie State Park, and elevated levels of sulfur dioxide continues in areas downwind of vents, including Kamaili, Seaview, and Malama Ki.