Trouble in paradise: Hawaii on alert as biggest active volcano on Earth is showing signs it may erupt. Breaking details now on ABC7
Scientists say an eruption isn't imminent, but they are on alert because of a recent spike in earthquakes at the volcano's summit. Experts say it would take just a few hours for lava to reach homes closest to vents on the volcano, which last erupted in 1984.
The volcano makes up 51% of the Hawaii Island landmass, so a large portion of the island has the potential to be affected by an eruption, Magno said. During a 1950 eruption, the mountain's lava traveled 15 miles to the ocean in less than three hours. Bob Werner, an Ocean View resident who didn't attend the meeting, said it's wise to be aware of a possible eruption but not to fear it. He's not concerned that the neighborhood would be completely cut off, if lava flows across the only road connecting it to the bigger towns of Kailua-Kona and Hilo, where many people do their shopping.
There could still be a heightened sense of urgency since officials have been holding town hall meetings, urging people to prepare. The current alert level is "advisory" meaning the volcano is showing signs of unrest yet there's no indication an eruption is likely or certain.Lava from Mauna Loa's northeast flank could take days or weeks to reach residential communities. That's because the mountain's slopes on that side are relatively gentle and because towns are farther from volcanic vents.
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