Trump approves disaster aid for Hawaii’s Big Island as aerial photos show huge fissures in the land and lava swallowing homes, as thousands more are told to get ready to flee Kilauea eruption
Trump approved federal disaster relief funds on Friday, one day after Hawaii’s governor requested them
Geologists warn lava lake is due to hit the groundwater level any day, causing ‘violent steam-driven blasts’
Hawaii County Civil Defense issued notice on Friday warning residents of lower Puna to prepare to evacuate
In Puna, hazardous fumes continue to pour from 15 fissures that stretch over nearly three miles
Lava flows have covered more than 117 acres of land, destroying 36 structures including 27 homes
By KEITH GRIFFITH
DAILYMAIL.COM
12 May 2018
President Donald Trump has issued a presidential disaster declaration for Hawaii’s Big Island as the state copes with Kilauea volcano’s eruption.
Hawaii Governor David Ige said on Friday the declaration means federal assistance will be available as the state covers costs associated with damaged roads, public parks, schools and water pipes. The funds, approved one day after Ige requested them, will also cover costs for geologists and security personnel at roadblocks.
Lava flows from Kilauea volcano have destroyed 36 structures, including 27 homes, as the state suffers from declining tourism despite assurances that most of its islands remain safe. The lava flowing from 15 fissures now covers more than 117 acres.
On Friday, Hawaii County Civil Defense warned residents of lower Puna to prepare to evacuate on short notice, in the event of possible gas emissions and volcanic eruption.
Geologists say conditions are prime for a major eruption within hours or days. Kilauea’s lava lake is on track to recede to groundwater levels at any time over the weekend, triggering ‘violent steam-driven blasts’, according to the US Geological Survey.
Incredible photos from an overflight earlier this week show huge columns of gas venting as the lava advances inexorably, destroying luxurious homes in its path.
Meanwhile, warnings that Kilauea could shoot boulders and ash out of its summit crater are prompting people to rethink their plans to visit the Big Island.
But most of the rest of the island is free of volcanic hazards, and local tourism officials are hoping travelers will recognize the Big Island is ready to welcome them.
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