Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported this morning that a small steam explosion occurred in Halemaumau Crater Friday night around midnight.
National Weather Service reports the ash plume rose to around 10,000 feet. Trade winds pushed the ash plume to the southwest toward Ka’u, Pahala, and Naalehu. Residents of these areas are reminded to protect themselves from ash fallout by remaining indoors or by using dust masks.
Fissures east of Pohoiki Road near Lanipuna gardens continue to erupt, producing a slow moving lava flow. Four homes were destroyed, but no highways are threatened at this time.
Due to the volcanic activity, the following policies are in effect:
• Pohoiki Road is closed.
• Residents from Isaac Hale Beach Park to Kalapana are advised to prepare for voluntary evacuation should Highway 137 become threatened.
• For those evacuating, the Pahoa Community Center, Keaau Community Center, and Sure Foundation Church are open. Food will be provided and the shelters are pet friendly.
• Highway 132 and 130 are open to local traffic past the checkpoints.