Loading ...The lower Puna area around Kalapana & Seaview estates has become unlivable with dangerous air quality. USGS and civil defense says that Sulfur Dioxide output from the eruption has TRIPLED with the new lava outbreak. And now with the ocean entry of lava we have a new airborne hazard called “Laze”… Lava Haze. As the hot lava enters the ocean the steam plume contains Hydrochloric Acid (from the decomposed seawater) and fine volcanic glass particles… a recipe to shred your lungs if you breathe it.
With the tradewinds blowing most of the Vog & Laze southwest along the shoreline, the downwind communities are almost unlivable now. Many residents have ‘bugged out’ because they cannot breathe.
I’m not looking forward to a wind reversal coming from the south. I don’t think the Laze will be a problem at my distance, but the increased SO2 from the fountaining vents will still be intense if they waft over my home. Masks ready. We also have a place to retreat to a family home in Hilo town, 20 miles further north, as needed.
Life on the volcano…. It’s a Gas!