The County of Hawaii has announced that the Pahoa lava flow, coming from the Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii's Big Island, has stalled but it is still very active.
On Tuesday, Jan 6, the County of Hawaii issued an update regarding the lava flow assessment, which revealed that there have been no advancements since Friday, Jan. 2. The front or the leading edge of the lava flow is about 0.5 miles upslope of Highway 130 and the Pahoa Village Road intersection. The lava flow update suggests that surface activity is continuing about 200 yards upslope or above the flow front.
"Two breakouts along the north margin approximately 1-1.5 miles upslope or behind the flow front remain active and have advanced approximately 150 yards since yesterday in a north direction. Other surface breakouts and activity along both margins continue upslope," reported the County of Hawaii.
Authorities suggest that the present activity should not be taken as an immediate danger to local communities. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) and Civil Defense officials are closely observing the flow. Authorities will inform businesses and residents at downslope if there is any change in the flow activity.
The Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes across the world. The first properly documented eruption occurred in 1823. The latest eruption started in June 2014, which has forced many local residents to evacuate the area.
The lava from the volcano was flowing toward Pahoa on Hawaii's Big Island for several weeks at a speed of around 10 to 15 yards an hour. Pahoa is supposed to be the commercial center of Big Island's Puna district. People from surrounding areas visit Pahoa for necessities, such as medical services, groceries and other supplies.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) says that the molten lava is as hot as 1,650 degrees Fahrenheit and can damage nearly anything that comes in its path.
As the lava flow has recently stalled, authorities have not announced a necessary evacuation but warned businesses and residents in the projected path of the flow to prepare for evacuation if needed.
The Pahoa Marketplace is at the projected path of the lava flow and, as a result, many businesses have started the evacuation process.
Officials have also warned drivers of increased traffic. Drivers of large vehicles are also urged to drive with caution.
Malama Market, which is the largest supermarket in the area, has also been closed along with three gas stations.
