The world’s largest active volcano, Hawai’i’s Mauna Loa started erupting for the first time since 1984 on Sunday night, ending its longest quiet period in recorded history and turning the night sky red as hot lava spewed from the summit.
The US Geological Service (USGS) said the lava is contained within the summit and does not threaten Hawaiians living downslope from the volcano for now.
USGS warned local residents on Monday that volcanic gases and fine ash may drift their way.
Flight updates
A Hawaiian Airlines spokesperson said the carrier’s transpacific and interisland flights, including services to and from Kona and Hilo, are operating as scheduled. The carrier has also issued a travel waiver for passengers affected by the volcanic activity in Hawai’i.
“Our dispatchers are closely monitoring the eruption of Mauna Loa and we are allowing guests to reschedule their travel without any change fees or fare difference,” the spokesperson said.
Hawaiian Airlines has added an extra flight today, Tuesday 29 November, which will depart Hilo at 6:15pm and arrive in Honolulu at 7:05pm to accommodate travellers whose plans have changed or been disrupted by the volcano eruption.
Airline passengers are advised to check their flight status at hawaiianairlines.com.au for updates.
Volcanic activity
The 4,169m-high Mauna Loa is located on the island of Hawai’i and last erupted in March and April 1984, sending a flow of lava within 8.05km of Hilo, the island’s largest city.
Hawaii’s Emergency Management Agency said it had opened two shelters on the island as a precaution.
The agency also emphasised there are no signs that lava will threaten populated areas and it had not issued any evacuation orders.
About half of all recorded eruptions of Mauna Loa were confined to the summit, the agency said.
Via AAP
