The National Weather Service reported Friday afternoon that trade winds will be slowing over the weekend, creating hazardous air quality and decreased visibility conditions throughout the lower east rift zone. Volcanic gases, vog and ash emissions may increase over the weekend with higher levels of sulfur dioxide pooling in areas down wind of the vents.

Due to the changing conditions, the following policies are in effect:

ADVERTISING

• Take action to limit further exposure and be prepared to leave the area with little to no notice if necessary.

• Visibility may decrease. First responders are asking everyone be safe on the roadways and slow down.

• Ash fallout may cause poor driving conditions. Drive with extreme caution, or pull over and park.

• Stay alert for warnings from Civil Defense officials.

To help our residents, we are distributing free masks for ash protection:

• Distribution is from 3:30-7:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m..

• Masks will be distributed at Ocean View Community Center, Naalehu Community Center, Pahala Community Center, Cooper Center and Shipman Gym in Keaau.

ADVERTISING

• There are 1,400 masks available at each site. Each person may receive up to three masks.

• Masks do not protect against gasses and vapors. They will only provide filtering for ash.