Mayor Harry Kim issued a mandatory evacuation order for parts of Leilani Estates and an emergency rule for Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland Hawaii.
The documents were issued separately, with the first requiring evacuation in Leilani in areas east of Pomaikai Street by noon Thursday. It says that those who remain “do so at their own risk with the knowledge that emergency responders may not respond.”
“Persons in violation of this order are subject to arrest and liability for any recovery costs associated with rescue operations in the mandatory evacuation area,” the document states. The order is effective for 60 days or until further notice by the Office of the Mayor.
The emergency rule applying to the Kapoho subdivisions says that only residents, government contractors and emergency responders are allowed in the area. No guests or visitors are permitted.
Residents are considered verified owners of property or those with leases with terms of at least six months.
Lava flow update
These orders are in response to the ongoing eruption in lower Puna, that has displaced up to 2,500 people and destroyed at least 75 homes.
As of Thursday morning, a fast-moving lava flow fed from fissure No. 8 was in the vicinity of Noni Farms Road and moving toward the Waa Waa area.
Janet Snyder, a spokeswoman for Mayor Harry Kim, said that lava from fissure 8 was 2.1 miles from Four Corners, the intersection of Highways 132, 137 and Government Beach Road, moving at 230 feet per hour.
Lava from fissure No. 18, which is slower moving, has advanced 1/10 of a mile in the past 24 hours, placing it a half-mile from Highway 137.
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that lava from several fissures continues to move through Leilani Estates, Lanipuna Gardens and towards the Kapoho area.
Residents of Government Beach Road, Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland area at risk for isolation or lava inundation should a flow reach that area and are advised to evacuate due to the possibility.
Due to the volcanic activity the following policies are in effect:
• Evacuation area residents including Leilani Estates, Government Beach Road, Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland with approved credentials are allowed to enter from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This curfew is strictly enforced for your safety.
• Placards to reenter these areas are available at the Disaster Information Center at the Pahoa Community Center Monday thru Friday 9-3.
• Highway 132 is closed.
• Residents close to any volcanic activity should remain alert and be prepared to voluntarily evacuate if necessary.