County: 82 structures lost to lava since May 3

This USGS photo shows eruptive activity at fissure 6 this morning. Lava fountains have built a small spatter cone (black mound) from which lava was spilling out onto the surface and flowing into a small pond (left of the cone).
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Eighty-two structures have been destroyed by the lower Puna eruption since May 3, according to a spokesperson for the county.

The updated total includes homes and other structures, including unpermitted buildings, and is a significant increase from the estimated 50 destroyed structures reported yesterday. However, the previous estimate was hindered by poor visibility and other factors.

About 2,200 acres in lower Puna have been covered by lava since the start of the eruption, the spokesperson said.

Check www.hawaiitribune-herald later for more, or see tomorrow’s print edition.