Hawaii: Big Island in Big Trouble Due to Volcanic Activity

Kilauea continues to cause upheaval for thousands in Hawaii.

The volcano is located on Big Island, the most southern island in the Hawaiian islands. Recently, a 4.4 magnitude earthquake led to a violent eruption, and the famous volcano—often seen in many pictures amidst the beauty of Hawaii—spewed fast flowing lava and two-feet-wide rocks.

While the eruption has wreaked havoc on many communities in nearby villages and farmland, no deaths have occurred due to the volcano’s activity. There has, however, been one reported injury: a man sitting on his porch was hit by lava in the leg and severely hurt.

After the first eruption on April 30^th, thousands of residents were evacuated from the area. More than 40 homes and structure were destroyed by the lava, and it quickly picked up speed, forcing even more residents to evacuate their homes. The fissures continue to spit out lava.

Now, more fear and distress falls on Big Island; the lava has now spread to the Pacific Ocean, creating what is called ‘laze’—a mixture of lava and haze. Laze is a toxic mix of hydrochloric acid and volcanic glass particles that can prove fatal if breathed in. Incoming winds could push the toxic mix further, putting thousands more at risk.

And unfortunately, it’s unclear whether or not this volcanic activity will slow down any time soon:

“At any time, activity may again become more explosive, increasing the intensity of ash production and producing ballistic projectiles very near the vent,” said the United States Geological Survey. “It’s very dynamic and dangerous.”

Despite this warning, flights have not been changed, and other areas of the Hawaiian chain have not yet been affected.

Authorities suggest that residents and tourists avoid the laze, as well as the immediate areas surrounding the volcano. Beyond that, all we can do is hope that more eruptions do not occur.

Featured Image via: Flickr/Frank Wittig