Eruption of Hawaii’s Mauna Loa , Prompts Ashfall Advisory for Big Island.
CNN reports that Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano
in the world, is erupting for the first time since 1984.
An ashfall advisory was issued
for the Big Island on Nov. 28.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a "trace to less than one quarter inch"
of ash may accumulate throughout the island.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority reports that the eruption is "not currently threatening communities downhill or affecting flights to the Island of Hawaii.".
No evacuation orders have been declared yet, but two shelters have been opened as a precaution.
People with respiratory illnesses should remain indoors to avoid inhaling the ash particles and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, via statement.
Possible harm to crops and animals. Minor equipment and infrastructure damage. Reduced visibility. Widespread clean-up may be necessary, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, via statement.
According to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, "roughly half" of previous Mauna Loa eruptions have stayed in the summit area and away from people.
However, if the eruptive vents migrate outside its walls, lava flows may move rapidly downslope, Hawaii Volcano Observatory, via statement