Saturday - March 08, 2008

Lava heads to the ocean

After months of sticking inland, the lava flows from Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island have begun another journey to the sea. The lava is marching toward Royal Gardens Subdivision, an area that was largely buried in lava in 1983.

Officials opened a pedestrian viewing area off Highway 130 in Puna this weekend to accommodate the crowds which are eager to see the goddess Pele at work. The viewing area should be about one quarter mile away from the spot where lava is entering the ocean.

Rangers and officials will monitor the path of the lava daily to ensure that the area is still safe for visitors.

There are several inherent dangers to lava viewing which visitors must be aware of. Fumes or VOG (volcanic gases) can cause problems for people with respiratory and heart conditions as well as pregnant women and children. The lava creates a bench when it enters the ocean. This bench can collapse at any time without warning causing serious injury or death to those reckless enough to venture that close. Always stay within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park designated areas for lava viewing.

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Author: N.A.Whitling

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