Geologists observe steam near Ala‘ili Road

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists have observed steam coming from the ground near Ala‘ili Road and Highway 130.

The area, located mauka of the highway, was still steaming during a 4:30 p.m. Wednesday overflight, according to HVO.

Hawaii County Civil Defense said police had evacuated 10 homes on Ala‘ili Road.

Janet Babb, HVO spokeswoman, said new vents are expected as the eruption in lower Puna continues, and the steam is a possible indicator of where a future fissure could occur.

If that occurs, that would be the first time the eruption migrates away from Leilani Estates.