Volcano Watch: Large earthquake a reminder to ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’

It is important to be aware of your surroundings and have a plan in case of an emergency. “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” reduces the risk of personal injury during most earthquake situations. Drop to the ground to lessen the chances of falling over during intense ground shaking. Find cover under a sturdy shelter to protect yourself from falling objects. Hold on to your shelter to prevent it from shaking away during the earthquake. (USGS photo by N. Bennington/Special to West Hawaii Today)

From Ni‘ihau to Kilauea, all Hawaii residents live on landscapes shaped by volcanoes. Each Hawaiian volcano starts on the floor of the Pacific Ocean. Over time—and with countless eruptions—lava accumulates as the volcano grows above sea level, eventually creating the islands we now call home.