Explosive Eruption Sends Ash Cloud 7,000 ft High
A relatively small and brief explosive eruption occurred just before midnight (at approximately 11:58 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2018) with the ash cloud briefly reaching to near 7000 feet.
Hawaiʻi Volcano Observatory reports that additional explosions are possible at any time with little warning. If this occurs, an Ashfall Advisory or Warning would likely be necessary.
Occasional bursts of volcanic ash may continue to emanate from Halemaʻumaʻu Crater (19.4N 155.3W). These bursts may be brief and could occur at multiple times. Low level winds would tend to push any ash clouds toward the south and southwest. Most ash fallout would remain mainly over rural areas and Highway 11 to the southwest of the town of Volcano.
Avoid excessive exposure to ash which is an eye and respiratory irritant. Those with respiratory sensitivities should take extra precaution to minimize exposure.
On Friday night, fast moving lava from Fissure 20 has crossed Pohoiki Road near Malama Ki Place, isolating approximately 40 homes in the area. Early reports indicate that an additional four homes were destroyed by the advancing lava.
PC: US Geological Survey as viewed from the HVO Observation Tower this morning 2018-05-19 05:30:13 (HST)
PC: US Geological Survey as viewed from the HVO Observation Tower this morning 2018-05-19 05:30:13 (HST)
PC: US Geological Survey. Kīlauea Caldera From HVO Observation Tower 2018-05-19 05:40:07 (HST)
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