US: Kilauea eruption destroys at least nine homes as of May 6 /update 1

Event

The ongoing eruption of lava from the Kilauea volcano and nearby volcanic fissures has destroyed at least nine homes, engulfed roads, and knocked down power lines on the Island of Hawai'i as of Sunday, May 6. The volcanic eruption has also prompted authorities to order the evacuation of 1700 people from Leilani Estates and others from Lanipuna Gardens. The American Red Cross has reportedly set up emergency centers to receive people displaced from the eruption at the Pahoa and Keaau community centers. Further volcanic venting of lava and toxic sulfur dioxide gas is expected in the area in the coming days; additional earthquakes, evacuations, road closures, and power outages are possible in the East Rift Zone. Flight delays and cancelations - while not expected in large numbers because of the small volume of ash spewed thus far - are also possible at Hawaii airports in the coming days.

Context

Hundreds of earthquakes ranging from magnitude 2 to 5 have reportedly shook the island since April 30. On May 4, a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck approximately 16 km (10 mi) southwest of Leilani Estates. The earthquake, the largest to strike the Island of Hawai'i in decades, came after the initial eruption of Kilauea on May 3.

Kilauea volcano is one of Hawaii's most active volcanoes. It is located on the Hawai'i island of the state of Hawaii.

Advice

Individuals present in or intending to travel to the affected area are advised to monitor the situation, confirm travel reservations, follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from abrasive ash.