Hawaii volcano eruption: Latest aerial pictures as homes become islands SURROUNDED by lava
DRAMATIC pictures have shown hundreds of homes being destroyed as lava from Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano engulfs a bay on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Kilauea: Lava river INCINERATES Hawaii homes
Mr Kim has ordered a mandatory evacuation order covered the Kapaho area, as well as neighbouring Leilani estates.
Kapaho Bay itself is filled with lava, with the volcano visibly reshaping the Big Island coastline.
The ocean entry is a hazardous area
A spokesman for Hawaii Volcano Observatory said yesterday: “The ocean entry is a hazardous area.
“Hazards include walking on uneven, glassy lava flow surfaces and around unstable, vertical sea cliffs.
“Venturing too close to an ocean entry on land or the ocean exposes you to flying debris from sudden explosive interaction between lava and water.
Kilauea volcano: Lava flows into ocean at Kapoho Bay
“Also, the lava delta is unstable because it is built on unconsolidated lava fragments and sand.
“This loose material can easily be eroded away by surf, causing the new land to become unsupported and slide into the sea.
“In several instances, such collapses have also incorporated parts of the older sea cliff.
“Additionally, the interaction of lava with the ocean creates ‘laze’, a corrosive seawater plume laden with hydrochloric acid and fine volcanic particles that can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs.”
Kilauea has been erupting since May 3.
An estimated 2,500 people have now been evacuated from the surrounding area.