The Hawaii Observatory is urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations as the evolution of lava flows, now contained, could change “quickly”
Hawaii’s Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano, has erupted for the first time in 40 years. For now, it does not pose a threat to the nearest populated areas, but experts say the situation could change “soon”. “At this time, the lava flows are in the summit area and do not pose a threat to communities below the slope,” the Hawaii Volcano Observatory said in a statement, describing that the eruption began around 11:30 p.m. local time yesterday.
Despite saying there would be no danger to residents for now, the institute has urged residents to prepare for possible evacuations, as the evolution of lava flows can change “quickly” and go downhill if they don’t are enclosed in the caldera, that is, the basin at the top of the volcano. The experts do not exclude that the wind can transport gases and even ash residues to other, more distant areas. Authorities have chosen to close off the summit area and several roads and issue a red alert for air navigation in the area.
A United States Geological Survey (USGS) webcam on the northern rim of the 4,168-foot Mauna Loa summit has shown long, bright erupting fissures in the volcanic crater.
It should be remembered that Hawaii has six active volcanoes. According to the USGS, Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times since 1894. The most recent, in 1984, lasted 22 days and produced lava flows that reached up to four miles from Hilo, a city of 44,000.
Source: La Verdad
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