Lava filling Pahoa transfer station driveway

Here is the Hawaii County Civil Defense lava update for Thursday morning:

“This morning’s assessment shows that the three breakouts remain active and continue to advance These breakouts are located in the area of the cemetery below Apa‘a Street; above Apa‘a Street in the area west or upslope of the transfer station; and 0.2 miles upslope of Apa‘a Street. The breakouts currently do not pose an immediate threat to area residents and will be monitored closely. The breakout near the transfer station continues to fill into the driveway area to the rear and south side of the facility and burning is involving the asphalt road material. All other burning with other breakouts is limited to vegetation only.

“Smoke conditions are currently moderate to heavy with a light south wind blowing the smoke in a north northeast direction towards the Ainaloa, Hawaiian Paradise Park and Keaau areas. Smoke conditions may increase in some areas and residents down wind that may be sensitive or have respiratory problems are advised to take necessary precautions and to remain indoors. The weather service has forecast continued south winds for the next few days.

“The evacuation advisory for those residents down slope of the flow will continue and residents will be kept informed of the flow status and advancement.

“The Pahoa Village Road between Apa‘a Street and the Post Office Road will remain closed and limited to area residents only. Access to the businesses and commercial areas of the Pahoa town can be made through the Pahoa Village Road at the intersection of Highways 130 and 132. We apologize for any inconvenience the road closure may be presenting with and remind everyone that the Pahoa town center and businesses are open and accessible.

“Civil Defense and public safety personnel will be operating in the area round the clock to maintain close observations of flow activity.”