A volcano erupts in Hawaii. Lava flows make their way into the valley. The authorities have set the alert level to “red”.
Honolulu – One of the largest active volcanoes in the world has been dormant for nearly 40 years – but now its slumber has come to an abrupt end. Mauna Loa volcano eruption in Hawaii. A massive eruption occurred just before midnight on Sunday evening (11:00 CET on Monday 28 November). According to the authorities, the eruption was accompanied by several small earthquakes.
United States Geological Survey (USGS), a US science agency, reported as its latest volcano update (2:55 UTC on Tuesday, November 29): The eruption of Mauna Loa in the northeastern crater area is ongoing. The lava fountains are up to 60 meters high, according to authorities’ estimates. Two lava flows had moved down the slope in a northeasterly direction, but had stopped. Other currents would move eastward. Further cracks could open, further lava flows are expected.
The volcano erupts: several lava flows flow down Mauna Loa
The USGS has since issued a red color-coded alert. The highest level of warning possible. Past eruptions of Mauna Loa have shown that volcanic eruptions are very dynamic, especially in the early stages, the authority warned. According to the agency, so far there is no danger to communities in the region, but the winds could carry volcanic gases and ash towards populated areas.
Researchers at the Center for the Study of Existential Risk (CSER) recently pointed out that the world was “woefully unprepared” for a massive volcanic eruption and the likely consequences for global supply chains, climate and food.
The Hawaii Department of Health has issued an air quality advisory. It also published several precautionary measures in case the gases enter inhabited areas. People with asthma or other chronic respiratory diseases should take special care. (slow)
