Ashes as high as 25,000 feet are causing a new ashfall advisory on the Island of Hawaii at this time.
Yesterday volcanic emission from the Overlook crater within Halema`uma`u had generally decreased since yesterday. Although varying in intensity, at times the plume contains enough ash to be gray in color. The cloud is rising an estimated 3 to 4,000 feet above the ground, but altitudes are varying with pulses of emission. The ash cloud is drifting slowly northward from the Kilauea summit and ashfall may occur in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and Volcano Village. Communities downwind may receive ashfall and should take necessary precautions.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kilauea’s summit has occurred this morning and expects the resulting ash plume to cover the surrounding area. The agency advises people in the path of the ash plume to shelter in place.
A 3.6 strong earthquake was measured at Hawaii Island.
Driving conditions in the area may be dangerous and drivers are advised to pull off the road until visibility improves, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense.
Volcanic ash is expected to reach the region to the southwest and west of the Kilauea Volcano Summit (Halemaumau Crater), including cities of Wood Valley, Pahala, Punaluu, Naalehu, and Hawaiian Oceanview Estates, the National Weather Service said in an advisory.
Ash accumulation less than one-quarter of an inch is possible over the advisory area. Eye and respiratory irritants with low-level impacts for most people.
US President Trump had issued a disaster declaration for the island.
