(ABOVE MAP) Inset taken from today’s Civil Defense Lava Flow Map, which was updated on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 7:00 am. Full map below.

NEWS BRIEFS

The lava flow front has advanced approximately 225 yards in a North Northeast direction in the last 24 hours. The active flow front is now 2.2 miles upslope of the Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road intersection.

Although the future flow path of the flow is uncertain, civil defense observations (marked in the map above) show the flow has thus far followed the southern line of deepest descent in the flat topographical area where several lines of steepest descent nearly converge.

INSIGHTS

Here is part of today’s discussion that took place during the 11 a.m. media conference call with Hawaii County Civil Defense.

RECENT RELATED VIDEO

Here is footage from yesterday’s overflight (Dec. 8) shot by Mick Kalber aboard Paradise Helicopters, edited with yesterday’s civil defense message (Dec. 8).

PRIMARY SOURCES

This morning’s assessment shows that the flow front remains active and has advanced approximately 225 yards in a North Northeast direction in the last 24 hours. The active flow front is approximately 2.2 miles upslope of the Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road intersection. Current activity does not pose an immediate threat to area communities and Civil Defense and Hawaiian Volcano Observatory personnel are maintaining close observations of flow activity. Residents down slope will be kept informed of any changes in flow activity, advancement, and status. Smoke conditions were light to moderate this morning in the immediate area with a light south west wind blowing the smoke in a north northeast direction. Smoke conditions may increase in some areas and residents that may be sensitive or have respiratory problems are advised to take precautions and to remain indoors. The Pahoa Village Road remains open to all traffic and motorists are advised to exercise caution as some utility pole protection material remains in place. Everyone is asked to please respect the residents of the area who were affected by the lava flow and to not trespass on private property. Once again we would like to thank everyone for your patience and understanding and your cooperation and assistance is greatly appreciated. Hawaii County Civil Defense on Dec. 9 at 8:30 a.m. HST