As you may already know, the Big Island just keeps getting bigger because of the lava flowing from Kilauea volcano. Well, on Thursday, the island actually got 16 acres smaller as a lava delta feel off into the sea. It must have been a sight for the Hawaii Volcano Observatory to see. This is what they said in a news release, ” lava sections generated steam plumes reaching 200 feet to 1,000 feet into the air as they fell into the ocean.”
Fortunately, there were no injuries mainly because the section that fell was more than two miles from the park’s viewing site. Park officials warned that the recent collapse have caused large cracks that may result in additional lava collapses. Always be sure to check in at the visitor’s center to find out what the current conditions and hazards are before venturing off into the park. Always heed warning signs as well, they are not there for decoration,but for your safety.
The official park web site reports the closure of Laeapuki lava delta with the following details:
The Lae`apuki lava delta (which is roped off), Wilipea bench, the west Highcastle beach, and the Highcastle beach are closed and marked with area closure signs. These areas are closed because they are extremely unstable and poised to collapse without warning.
Sheila Beal
