HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-05-16 Eruption Update for 1200 Noon
CIVIL DEFENSE AGENCY Date: May 16, 2018
MEDIA UPDATE Time: 12 PM
Radio Frequency: Every 1 hour
Update: #3
Incident: East Rift Zone Eruption
This is a Civil Defense Message for Wednesday, May 16 at 12 p.m.
The National Weather Service reports very light ashfall and hazardous air quality possible. The
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that occasional bursts of ash are coming from Halemaumau
Crater. Light upslope winds may carry ash across portions of Kau, Puna and North and South Hilo
Districts. Only trace dusting of ash is currently visible on property.
Avoid excessive exposure to ash which is an eye and respiratory irritant.
Those with breathing issues should take extra precaution to minimize exposure.
Motorists are advised to drive with caution.
All roads in this area are open at this time.
Volcanic gas emissions remain elevated throughout the area downwind of the vents in lower Puna.
An interruption in trade winds today means that Lower Puna, Volcano Village and surrounding
areas, such as the Big Island North, South and Interior, may experience varying levels of vog and
sulfur dioxide exposure. The Hawaii Fire Department reports that air quality is still 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 exist such as choking and inability to breathe.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO) gas from fissures are especially dangerous for elderly, children/babies
2
and people with respiratory problems.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory says lava flows from fissure 17 have advanced little over the past
day. Field crew estimates are an advance of only 100 yards.
Due to the volcanic activity, the following are issued:
The U.S. Postal Service reports that mail delivery has been temporarily suspended to the
following neighborhoods in the Puna area of Hawaii island: Leilani Estates, Lanipuna Gardens,
Pahoa-Kapoho Road, Papaya Farms, Vacationland, Kapoho Beach, Kapoho-Kalapana Road,
Seaview, Puna Palisades, Kehena, Kalapana Shores, Uncle Roberts, Kalapana-Pahoa Road, Chain
of Craters Road and Black Sands. Residents of these areas are asked to pick up their mail from
the Pahoa Post Office at 15-2859 Pahoa Village Road.
Just a reminder: An emergency water restriction is in effect for the Kapoho to Pohoiki area
until further notice.
County, State and Federal partners continue to monitor the situation. You will be informed of any
conditions that affect your safety.
Sign up for the latest Civil Defense Agency messages and alerts at www.hawaiicounty.gov/active-alerts
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.