US: Scientists downgrade Hawai’i volcano alert level August 17 /update 20

Event

Scientists with the United States Geological Survey downgraded the alert level for Hawai'i's Kilauea volcano to 'watch' on Friday, August 17. The announcement follows a week of inactivity at the summit and fissures in the Lower Eastern Rift Zone (LERZ). Geologists said that no signs of imminent activity are present, though eruptions could resume. The volcano and LERZ still remain hazardous, with elevated levels of sulfur dioxide downwind from vents and hot and unstable lava fields.

Context

Kilauea began erupting on May 3, 2018. Lava flow from the summit and through the LERZ have destroyed 700 homes and damaged roads, power lines, and other infrastructure on the Island of Hawai'i.

Advice

Individuals in Hawai'i are advised to continue to avoid areas affected by volcanic eruptions, monitor the situation for updates, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.