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Hotline updates Kalapana lava viewing daily

Lava enters the ocean (Photo by Baron Sekiya/Hawaii247.com)

Lava enters the ocean in March. (Photo by Baron Sekiya/Hawaii247.com)

MEDIA RELEASE

The county Civil Defense Agency has set up a new telephone hotline to provide daily updates on volcano and lava viewing at the Kalapana Safe Viewing site.

The lava hotline number is 961-8093, which includes information on lava viewing hours for the day ahead.  The lava hotline automated message is updated at 10 a.m. daily.

The Kalapana Safe Viewing program at the volcanic eruption site is a wonderful natural attraction, and the Civil Defense Agency wants all visitors to enjoy the experience in safety and comfort.

Visitors are encouraged to prepare not only for sunny days at the lava viewing sight but also for rain. There are no shelters at the site.

For safety, comfort and convenience, prepare for any trip hazard:

* An umbrella and/or windbreaker or raincoat

* Bottled water (2-3 quarts or liters per person)

* Sturdy closed boots or shoes and socks 

* Flashlight (1 per person) and fresh batteries

* Long pants

* Sun hat and sunscreen

* Binoculars (optional) 

Note:  There is no cell phone coverage in the viewing area.

Visitors are allowed entry to the viewing area every day from 2 p.m., with the last vehicles admitted at 8 p.m. This will allow officials to ensure that everybody is out of the area by 10 p.m. The viewing area is closed between 10 p.m. and 2 p.m.   

This schedule is subject to change; hazardous conditions may require changes to the schedule or closure.

Visitors should obey warning signs and stay within allowed areas to ensure their safety. The newly formed lava and black sand beach are unstable, and can collapse into the ocean at any time. Visitors should stay well away from the volcanic steam clouds, which contain hydrochloric acid and glass particles.

Visitors are reminded to show courtesy and respect to local residents and property owners. Do not venture off the road or trail, and dispose of all trash in the garbage cans provided. 

Guide/interpreters will be on hand in the viewing area to provide information and assistance.  

— Find out more:

Civil Defense Agency, 935-0031

Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates: http://lavainfo.us/

Big Island Visitors Bureau updates: www.bigisland.org/parks/939/volcano-eruption-update


(Video by Baron Sekiya/Hawaii247.com)

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