U.S.

Kilauea Volcano In Hawaii Has Covered Almost 4 Square Miles In Lava

The lava has reportedly destroyed at least 82 structures and displaced thousands of people.

Kilauea Volcano In Hawaii Has Covered Almost 4 Square Miles In Lava
U.S. Geological Survey
SMS

The Kilauea volcano in Hawaii has now covered almost 2,400 acres in lava. That's almost 4 square miles. The lava has reportedly destroyed at least 82 structures and displaced thousands of people. 

There are at least three active fissures, or cracks, with lava flowing out of them. 

The lava flow reached the Puna geothermal power plant Saturday. There was concern the lava would release hydrogen sulfide or other toxic gases. But no hydrogen sulfide had been detected. 

This spike in volcanic activity on the Big Island has been going on for almost a month. The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency says residents who live close to the active eruption should be "alert to changes in the flow direction" and be prepared to evacuate.