In July 2010, lava burned vegetation on the coastal plain as active flows advanced toward Kalapana Gardens. Two homes in the subdivision were destroyed by lava during the past year.

MEDIA RELEASE

HAWAI‘I ISLAND, Hawaii – When a Hawaiian volcano erupts, who’s watching out for you? This question will be addressed in a presentation at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, Wentworth Hall 1, on Friday, January 14, at 7:00 p.m.

During the past year, lava flows from Kilauea Volcano’s ongoing east rift zone eruption burned two homes in Kalapana Gardens—the same area where lava burned 104 structures in 1990. During these events, county, state, and federal agencies worked closely together to keep residents informed and safe. But each agency has a different role with distinct responsibilities.

Join Jim Kauahikaua, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientist-in-Charge; Quince Mento, Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Administrator; and Talmadge Magno, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Chief Ranger, on Friday evening to learn who does what during a volcanic crisis. Each speaker will talk about his respective agency and how it responds to particular eruption scenarios.

This presentation is free and open to the public. It is just one of many talks, guided hikes, and other programs offered by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in January, Hawai‘i Island’s second annual Volcano Awareness Month. For more information, visit the HVO Web site at http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov or call (808) 967-8844.