Lava Update – Wednesday, Dec. 17

Hawaii County Civil Defense on Dec. 17 at 4:45 p.m. HST

This afternoon’s assessment shows that the flow front remains active and continues to advance in an east-northeast direction. The active flow had advanced approximately 70 yards since 6:30 this morning and the front remains approximately .9 mile upslope of the Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road intersection. Current activity does not pose an immediate threat to area communities and Civil Defense and Hawaiian Volcano Observatory personnel are maintaining close observations of flow activity. Residents and businesses down slope will be kept informed of any changes in flow activity, advancement, and status. As the flow activity continues to show signs of advancement, businesses in the Pahoa Market Place are taking necessary steps to prepare for a possible evacuation. Motorists are advised to drive with caution and to be prepared for increased traffic and large vehicles in the area.

Additional updates will be broadcast as conditions change.

On behalf of the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency and our partners we would like to thank everyone for your assistance and cooperation.