Hawaii Eruption

Written by: Rubi Orellana

For the first time in decades, two volcanoes erupt simultaneously in Hawaii—producing an odd and mystical event for witnesses.

On Sunday night, Hawaii's Mauna Loa—the world's largest active volcano—erupted for the first time in decades. Kilauea, on the archipelago's Big Island, also erupted nearby. Since 1984, no dual eruptions have occurred. "We have two eruptions happening at the same time," Jessica Ferracane, a spokesperson for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, told CBS News. "To the Hawaiian people, this is a very sacred event that we are witnessing." Kilauea, a smaller and more active volcano than Mauna Loa, has been erupting since 1983. Its lava flows destroyed hundreds of homes on the island in 2018. According to the US Geological Survey, its recent eruption activity has been limited to the volcano’s crater.

Two new lava flows formed Tuesday on Mauna Loa, which last erupted nearly four decades ago. The Mauna Loa eruption poses "No immediate threat to populated areas." according to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (EMA.). The lava was about 3.5 miles from Saddle Road, which connects the island's east and west sides, according to the EMA.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's scientist-in-charge, Ken Hon, said experts are monitoring the lava's movement. "It could just as easily shift and start another flow, and we'll just keep a close eye on it. We are thinking a lot about advancements.” Hon stated. Thankfully, it seems as though no towns are in the path of either volcano’s flow.

The eruption's ash and sulfur dioxide could have a negative impact on air quality across the state, according to the state health department. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is still open, but visitors should check the park website for closure updates, safety alerts, air quality, and other information.

Two volcanoes erupting simultaneously is a very odd and shocking thing. Many Hawaiian residents are in shock, and feel as though they are witnessing a mystical event.