(USGS MAP) Map as of 10:00 am HST, May 19. Shaded purple areas indicate lava flows erupted in 1840, 1955, 1960, and 2014-2015.

(BIVN) – At 3 p.m. HST, Hawaii County Civil Defense reported active lava flows in state forest reserve lands and heading in the general direction of MacKenzie State Park. No residents are threatened at this time, officials say.

“Residents should be aware that the lava flow is currently .8 miles from Highway 137 and, at the current rate, may cross the highway within the next four to seven hours,” Civil Defense said.

“Residents between Kamaili and Pohoiki are advised to decide if they want to voluntarily leave the area at this time,” the afternoon message stated. “For those who choose to voluntarily evacuate, the Pahoa Community Center, Keaau Community Center, and Sure Foundation Church are open. The shelters are pet friendly.”

Highway 130 is open for residents only. Closure may occur at any time with no notice.

“Should the lava cross, Highway 137 will be closed to thru traffic,” civil defense says. “Road blocks will be established on both sides of the roadway should the flow cross the highway.”

Should the lava enter the ocean be aware of the laze hazard and stay away from any ocean plume, officials warn. “Laze is when hot lava hits the ocean sending hydrochloric acid and steam with fine glass particles into the air,” civil defense said.