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Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano could have ‘explosive’ eruption, authorities warn

GEOLOGISTS have warned of a building threat, bubbling away in the heart of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano, amid fears acid rain could contaminate the island’s water supply.

HAWAII’S Kilauea volcano could erupt explosively sending boulders and ash hurtling hundreds of metres into the air, geologists have warned.

The United States Geological Survey issued a warning on Wednesday that explained if the lava lake within the “Overlook crater” drops to the level of groundwater beneath the Kilauea Caldera, it could cause a steam-driven explosion.

“Debris expelled during such explosions could impact the area surrounding HalemaÊ»umaÊ»u and the Kilauea summit. Primary hazards of concern should this activity occur are ballistic projectiles and ash fall,” the agency said.

There is also risk of acid rain, which can contaminate the island’s water supply.

The “Overlook” crater is displaying a “steady lowering” of levels.
The “Overlook” crater is displaying a “steady lowering” of levels.

Steam-driven explosions typically provide little warning and can be violent.

In addition to throwing out ballistic projectiles, volcanic gases such as sulfur dioxide can be emitted.

The agency has warned that such emissions can be hazardous.

Officials continue to monitor the levels of harmful gases. They’ve also warned that dangerous levels of sulfur dioxide gas could combine with moisture and dust to form volcanic smog (vog). The vog can carry drops of sulfuric acid which can cause respiratory problems, and damage the lungs.

Travellers with existing heart conditions, respiratory ailments and those who are pregnant, are advised to check with their physicians before visiting the Big Island.

At this stage flights haven’t been affected, but travellers are urged to check their airline regularly for announcements.

A US Army National Guard takes measurements for sulfur dioxide gas at volcanic fissures in the Leilani Estates neighbourhood. Picture: Mario Tama/Getty Images/AFP.
A US Army National Guard takes measurements for sulfur dioxide gas at volcanic fissures in the Leilani Estates neighbourhood. Picture: Mario Tama/Getty Images/AFP.

Kilauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Since last week, vents have popped open across the island releasing lava, gas and steam inside residential neighbourhoods.

Cracks in Highway 130 outlined in orange on May 7, at Leilani Estates, Hawaii. Picture: AP
Cracks in Highway 130 outlined in orange on May 7, at Leilani Estates, Hawaii. Picture: AP
A volcanic fissure with lava fountains as high as about 70m in Leilani Estates, Hawaii, on May 5, 2018. Picture: AFP/US Geological Survey/HO
A volcanic fissure with lava fountains as high as about 70m in Leilani Estates, Hawaii, on May 5, 2018. Picture: AFP/US Geological Survey/HO

There’s no indication when the activity will cease, or how far the lava will spread. A total of 36 structures have been destroyed and 26 of them have been confirmed as homes.

Little can be done to stop the flow of lava. Residents have been forced to watch helplessly as their cars and homes have been swallowed. Picture: AFP/US Geological Survey/HO
Little can be done to stop the flow of lava. Residents have been forced to watch helplessly as their cars and homes have been swallowed. Picture: AFP/US Geological Survey/HO

Residents of the Leilani Estates subdivision were evacuated last week after the first fissure opened on a street.

Authorities ordered 2000 residents within the Big Island’s mostly rural district of Puna to leave the area. But some ignored the order to watch over their property.

A man watches as lava is seen sewing from a fissure in the Leilani Estates subdivision near the town of Pahoa on Hawaii's Big Island. Picture: AFP/Frederic J. Brown
A man watches as lava is seen sewing from a fissure in the Leilani Estates subdivision near the town of Pahoa on Hawaii's Big Island. Picture: AFP/Frederic J. Brown

However, police made an urgent plea to the remaining residents on Tuesday, after two new vents opened up.

Hawaii County issued a mobile phone alert ordering stragglers within the Lanipuna Gardens area to get out immediately.

raffaella.ciccarelli@news.com.au | @raffaella_cicc

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/warnings/hawaiis-kilauea-volcano-could-have-explosive-eruption-authorities-warn/news-story/7648b8ac300e3db85177f1df75ec03c2