USGS Open-File Report 2007–1264: Lava Flow Hazard Assessment, as of August 2007, for Kīlauea East Rift Zone Eruptions, Hawai‘i Island

Lava Flow Hazard Assessment, as of August 2007, for Kīlauea East Rift Zone Eruptions, Hawai‘i Island

By Jim Kauahikaua

Summary

The most recent episode in the ongoing Pu‘ ‘Ō‘ō—Kupaianaha eruption of Kīlauea Volcano is currently producing lava flows north of the east rift zone. Although they pose no immediate threat to communities, changes in flow behavior could conceivably cause future flows to advance downrift and impact communities thus far unaffected. This report reviews lava flow hazards in the Puna District and discusses the potential hazards posed by the recent change in activity. Members of the public are advised to increase their general awareness of these hazards and stay up-to-date on current conditions.

First posted October 12, 2007

Report PDF (963 kB)

GIS KMZ (306 kB)
Contains the steepest descent lines described and used in the publication

This publication is online only

For additional information, contact:
HVO, Volcano Science Center,
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
U.S. Geological Survey
P.O. Box 51, 1 Crater Rim Road
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718-0051
http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/

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Suggested citation:

Kauahikaua, Jim, 2007, Lava flow hazard assessment, as of August 2007, for Kīlauea East Rift Zone eruptions, Hawai‘i Island: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2007-1264, 9 p.

ISSN 2331-1258 (online)

Contents

Abstract

Introduction

Lava Flow Hazards posed by Kīlauea Volcano in the Puna District

The Current Situation: the July 21 fissure eruption

What immediate hazards does the newest eruptive activity pose?

What future hazards does the newest eruptive activity pose?

Conclusions as of August 16, 2007

References

Figures (4)