Hawaii volcano eruption: Earthquake at summit will NOT cause tsunami, experts insist
GETTY Kilauea's caldera at dusk
The volcano has been erupting since the start of the month, with pronounced seismic activity and minor earthquakes.
However, a County of Hawaii spokesman stressed: “The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reports the earthquake that occurred at approximately 10:57 am was NOT large enough to cause a tsunami for the Island of Hawaii.
“There is NO tsunami threat for the island of Hawaii.
“Preliminary data indicates that the earthquake measuring a magnitude of 4.5 was centered at the Kilauea Summit.
GETTY Lava falls into the ocean, creating noxious fumes called laze
“As in all earthquakes, be aware of the possibility of after shocks.
“If the earthquake was strongly felt in your area, precautionary checks should be made for any damages; especially to utility connections of gas, water and electricity.
“If any additional information becomes available, you will be notified.”
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has reported that lava from several fissures is continuing to advance toward the Kapoho area, with residents being advised to evacuate.
USGS Lava bursts forth from one of Kilauea's fissures
The County of Hawaii spokesman added: “You are at risk of being isolated due to possible lava inundation of Beach Road near Four Corners.”
Traffic on Highway 137 is currently restricted to allow ongoing evacuations,with severely limited mobile phone and landline connectivity as a result of downed power lines, while Highway 132 remains closed.
In addition, north east trade winds have returned as will continue to send toxic vog towards the Ocean View and Kona areas.
Meanwhile large concentrations of volcanic gasses are present in the Leilani Estates area, with fissures continuing to create high fountains of lava.