(UPDATE) – Multiple sources are reporting a new fissure has opened down rift of Leilani Estates. We will have more information in a coming update

(BIVN) – Here is the latest information collected from different agencies, supplemented by multi-media.

ERUPTION UPDATE

Lower East Rift Zone:

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports volcanic activity in the lower East Rift Zone of Kīlauea Volcano continues. No lava has been emitted from any of the 15 fissure vents since May 9. Earthquake, ground deformation, and continuing high emission rates of sulphur dioxide indicate additional outbreaks of lava are likely.

Summit:

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has cautioned about the possibility of an explosive eruption at Halema’uma’u Crater due to the ongoing withdrawal of lava from Kilauea summit lake. This could generate ash plumes that may affect an area as far as 12 miles from the summit crater.

A newly organized informational website about ash hazards, gas hazards, and the Lower East Rift Zone eruption can be found here.

EVACUATION UPDATE

Lower East Rift Zone:

As a precautionary measure, residents of lower Puna between Kapoho and Kalapana, are advised to be on the alert in the event of possible gas emissions and volcanic eruption. “Because there may be little to no advance notice to evacuate, you should be prepared to evacuate at short notice,” civil defense says. “Take this time to prepare.”

All beach parks in Lower Puna have been closed, including the Pohoiki Boat Ramp.

“If you evacuate voluntarily, the Pahoa Community Center and Kea’au Community Center are open,” civil defense stated. “Food will be provided and the shelters are pet-friendly. This is a precautionary message. We want everyone in the Lower Puna area to be ready, and to remain safe.”

Conditions permitting, Leilani Estates residents will be allowed to check on their property from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day until further notice. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice, civil defense says.

Summit:

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is now closed until further notice, due to the possibility of a steam-induced explosion at the summit of Kīlauea following the drop of the lava lake.

At the request of the park, the FAA has issued a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) that extends 20,000 feet AGL and a 12 nautical mile radius around the summit of Kīlauea.

ROAD STATUS

Lower East Rift Zone:

• Highway 130 is closed between Malama Street and Kamaili Road.
• Pohoiki Road is closed from Highway 132 to 137 due to cracks in the road.

SERVICE UPDATE

Lower East Rift Zone:

• Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV) has completed the removal of all pentane gas.
• The Kalapana Transfer Station is closed until further notice. The Pāhoa Transfer Station on Apaa Street is open 7 days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Hawai‘i Electric Light reminds residents to treat all downed lines as live. Under no circumstances are you to approach or touch downed lines, officials say.
• Emergency water restrictions for the Pohoiki, Vacationland and Kapoho area are still in effect while personnel work to restore service. Water spigots installed near the entrance of Lava Tree State Park and a water tanker in Vacationland are still available for the public to access.
• United States Postal Service announced that evacuated residents can pick up their mail at the Pāhoa Post Office.
• The Hawai‘i County Police Department and the Prosecutor’s Office have established a policy of zero tolerance towards looting or vandalism. Under Emergency Provisions, any looting or vandalism will be treated as a felony.
• Contact the Humane Society for animal information.

Summit:

• The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Post Office has closed, mail pick up for area residents is at Volcano Village Post Office.

COMMUNITY MESSAGES

“The evacuated residents are going through a very difficult time. We ask for your help and understanding,” Civil Defense stated. “County, State and Federal partners continue to monitor the situation. You will be informed of any conditions that affect your safety.”