A New Eruption, Different Volcano!

 

 

Madam Pele sure is busy! A new eruption within a different volcano, Mauna Loa, began around 11:30 PM in Sunday November 27th for the first time in 38 years! The eruption began in Moku‘āweoweo, the summit caldera of Mauna Loa, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

 This means there are currently TWO eruptions on Hawaii Island in TWO different Volcanoes!  One eruption is Mauna Loa and a significantly smaller one is Halema’uma’u crater on the Kilauea summit caldera. 

 As of an hour ago, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) confirms that lava has exited Mauna Loa summit and can be seen in two lobes on the northeast flank and the northern flank.   Currently, the lava is not flowing toward populated areas and does not pose a threat to any communities.  It is headed towards saddle road which is a main throughfare for Hawaii Island residents and tourists alike to go from one side of the island to the other.   It is currently open, but that could change at any time. The Mauna Loa access road off Daniel Inoye highway is currently closed to traffic with police posted to keep looky-loos out.

 What does this mean for current and future guests? Right now, nothing.  We are in a hurry up and wait and see just like everyone else.  What may happen in two hours to two days is uncertain.  We will update on any road closures as we know about them, but otherwise it is mostly business as usual here.  I am told you can see the glow from the lava advancing down Mauna Loa from inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but I am going to check that out myself before I confirm more.

The National Weather Service has issued an Ashfall Advisory for all districts of Hawaiʻi Island through today. Trace amounts of ashfall and volcanic gas is expected. People with respiratory illness should remain indoors. If you must go outdoors, use face coverings to prevent inhaling ash particles.

Stay Tuned!

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