US: Hawaii volcano destroys dozens of structures

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - Dozens of structures, including at least nine homes, have been destroyed by scorching lava flows following a massive volcano eruption on Hawaii's Big Island, local authorities confirmed Monday.

Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted Thursday triggering a series of earthquakes that have continued to rattle the island as burning blood-red lava spewed hundreds of feet in the air from cracks in the ground.

The strongest earthquakes were felt Friday when a 5.6-magnitude temblor was followed an hour later by a 6.9-magnitude earthquake, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The Leilani Estates neighborhood on the east of the island has been the hardest hit after the ground there split open, releasing torrents of searing lava into the air.

While slow moving after it hits the ground, a lava flow consumes everything in its path, scorching and devouring indiscriminately.

The USGS has warned that areas downslope from the 10 existing fissures "are at risk of lava inundation" while warning that Leilani Estates "remains at the greatest risk". High levels of toxic gases, including sulfur dioxide, continue to emit from the cracks, the government agency said.

Despite a relative lull in gas and lava emissions, the USGS said additional outbreaks are expected due to continued seismic activity.

Leilani Estates is home to over 1,500 residents.

Residents are being allowed to check on their properties during daytime hours "conditions permitting", according to the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency.

The agency pleaded with tourists to remain out of the area.

"Please, the residents of Leilani need our help. This is not the time for sightseeing. You can help tremendously by staying out of the area," it said.