Hawaii County map shows the proximity of the new breakout to Puna Geothermal Venture.

(BIVN) – A new fissure opened on Puna’s lower East Rift Zone at about 6:45 a.m. Saturday morning, about 1 mile northeast and downrift of fissure 15.

No significant lava flow from this new fissure has been reported or observed at this time, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory stated this morning, but the scientists said conditions could change quickly.

“Elevated earthquake activity and ground deformation continue and additional outbreaks in the area remain likely,” USGS said.

According to Hawaii County Civil Defense:

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports fissure 16 is venting lava spatter about a mile below the geothermal plant property and a mile west (or Kalapana side) of highway 132. Highway 132 remains open. No residences are affected at this time, and no flow of lava has been generated. For up to date information, go to the 2018 Lava Eruption Map link at hawaiicounty.gov.