2018-05-21 Eruption Update at 1800

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CIVIL DEFENSE AGENCY Date: May 21, 2018 MEDIA UPDATE Time: 6:00 PM Update: #4 Incident: East Rift Zone Eruption This is a Civil Defense Message for Monday, May 21 at 6:00 in the evening. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kilauea summit has occurred at 5:51 PM. The resulting ash plume may affect surrounding areas. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that eruptive lava activity at multiple fissures continues with one flow entering the ocean. Fissure 22 continues to produce most of the lava feeding the flows. Lava from Fissure 22 has crossed onto the Puna Geothermal Venture property. County, state, and federal partners have been collaborating closely to monitor the situation and work with PGV to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities. Ten of the eleven wells have been quenched. Efforts are ongoing to make sure the site is secure and the community is kept safe. Due to current volcanic activity, the following information is provided for your awareness:  Residents in the affected area should be prepared to leave the area with little notice due to gas or lava inundation. Take action necessary to prepare ahead of time.  Gas levels remain high. Limit further exposure by sheltering in place or leaving the area. Due to unsafe conditions, the following policies are in effect:  Kalapana and Kapoho Roads are open to residents only. Identification is required.  Highway 137 is closed to all traffic between Kamaili Road and Pohoiki Road.  Kamaili Road is closed to all thru traffic. An eruption community information meeting will be held at the Pahoa High cafeteria on Tuesday, May 22 at 5:30 in the evening. The residents of lower Puna are going through a very difficult time. We ask for your help by avoiding the affected areas if possible. Thank you for your understanding. We are on watch 24-hours a day for your safety. This is your Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency.