Hawaii: Hawaii’s Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano in the world, is erupting for the first time in in 40 years. Lava flows, according to officials, are restricted in the summit area and do not pose a threat to towns below. However, the US Geological Service (USGS) warned in its notification that things could quickly alter.
Residents of Hawaii’s Big Island and the nearby waterways have been advised to exercise caution due to an ashfall advisory. The volcano’s alert status has changed from “advisory” to “warning,” the highest category.
The most recent eruption of Mauna Loa occurred in March and April of 1984, producing lava flows about 8 kilometres from Hilo. The volcano’s top caldera saw the start of the most recent eruption on Sunday night. After an eruption, hollows called calderas develop beneath the top.