Incident: East Rift Zone Eruption

This is a Civil Defense Message for Thursday, May 18 at 6 o’clock in the morning.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) has reported a new fissure 22, between fissures 19 and 20.  Several fissures are active with spattering.  A lava flow at fissure 17 is covering the existing lava flow, but no new advancement is occurring.

Due to the continued volcanic activity the following policies are in effect:

• Do continue to be on the alert for volcanic fumes of SO2.


• Volcanic gas such as SO2, is especially dangerous for elderly, children/babies and people with respiratory problems.


• People in areas downwind of rifts may intermittently experience higher levels of fumes. People with breathing problems should avoid being outdoors and leave the area if deemed necessary.

To help our residents, we are distributing free masks for ash protection.

• Distribution will continue today from 1pm to 7pm at Cooper Center and Ocean View Community Center.


• One mask per family member.


• Masks DO NOT protect against gasses and vapors. They will only provide filtering for ash.

A third shelter has opened.  Sure Foundation, located on Pohaku Circle in Keaau, is now open.

• People from Pahoa who have breathing concerns are relocating from the Pahoa Community Center shelter to the Sure Foundation shelter.


• The shelter will cater specifically to people with breathing issues, but everyone is welcome.


• All shelters are pet friendly.

The residents of Puna are going through a very difficult time.  We ask for your help and understanding.

Thank you for listening.  We are on watch 24-hours a day for your safety.