HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-05-16 Eruption Update for 0600
CIVIL DEFENSE AGENCY Date: May 16, 2018
MEDIA UPDATE Time: 6:00 AM
Radio Frequency: Every 1 hour
Update: #1
Incident: East Rift Zone Eruption
This is a Civil Defense Message for Wednesday, May 16 at 6:00 in the morning.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that several fissures are active producing spatter,
however the flow from Fissure 17 has not advanced since yesterday. For up to date
information go to http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/2018-lava-map
For the latest images and information from the Hawaii Volcano Observatory:
https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/multimedia_chronology.html
HVO has increased the Aviation Color Code to Red due to increased ash emission from
Kilauea. Ash has been rising nearly continuously from the vent and drifting downwind to the
southwest. Ashfall and vog have been reported along Highway 11 to Pahala. At any time,
activity may increase the intensity of ash production.
Due to the volcanic activity, the following are issued:
Volcano School of Arts and Sciences will be closed today (5/16/18).
Hawaii Fire Department reports that air quality is condition RED around fissures in the
southeast area of Lanipuna Gardens and surrounding farm lots on Pohoiki Road. Condition
RED means immediate danger to health so take action to limit further exposure. Severe
conditions may lead to symptoms such as eye and nose irritation, and coughing. Sulfur
Dioxide (SO) gas is especially dangerous for the elderly, children/babies and people with
2
respiratory problems.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) announced that Highway 130 is open
beyond Malama Street for local residents only. The Hawaii Police Department reports no
large trailers or heavy equipment will be allowed over the metal plates.
Highway 132 is closed at Pohoiki Road intersection and a checkpoint is located on Highway
130 by Pahoa High School. Only local traffic allowed beyond all roadblocks.
As a precautionary measure, residents of lower Puna are advised to be on the alert in the
event of possible gas emissions and volcanic eruption. Because there may be little to no
advance notice to evacuate, you should be prepared to evacuate at short notice. Take this
time to prepare.
If you evacuate voluntarily, the Pahoa Community Center and Kea’au Community Center
are open. Food will be provided and the shelters are pet-friendly. This is a precautionary
message. We want everyone in the Lower Puna area to be ready, and to remain safe.
County, State and Federal partners continue to monitor the situation. You will be informed of
any conditions that affect your safety.
The residents of Puna are going through a very difficult time. We ask for your help and
understanding.
Thank you for listening. Have a safe day. This is your Hawai‘i County Civil Defense.