Hawaii's Kilauea volcano eruption could last for years, geologists warn

Geologists have warned that the eruption could last months or even years
AP
Sophie Williams24 July 2018

US Government geologists have warned that the eruption of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano could last for months or even years.

Kilauea began erupting on May 3 forcing thousands of Big Island residents to evacuate their homes.

Over 700 homes have been destroyed on Hawaii's largest island.

According to a new study designed to help authorities on the island deal with potential risks, the current eruption could be the longest in the volcano’s history.

Aerial footage of lava entering the ocean on July 23
AP

The previous record was 88 days in 1955.

The report warned: “If the ongoing eruption maintains its current style of activity at a high eruption rate, then it may take months to a year or two to wind down.”

Hawaii volcano lava causes mass evacuation

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It found that a main risk to the area is a possible change in the direction of a lava flow that would put properties at risk.

A higher volume of molten rock is flowing underground from Kilauea’s summit lava reservoir than previous eruptions with supply to a single giant crack showing no sign of waning.

The volcano could hurl "ballistic blocks" and dust towns with volcanic ash and smog.

The news comes as a tourist boat was struck by lava last week.

Dramatic video shows the aftermath of a ‘lava bomb’ crashing through a boat in Hawaii

The 49 passenger sightseeing boat was taking tourists to see lava flowing from the volcano and entering the sea when it was struck by lava.

A woman suffered a fractured leg while others were treated for scrapes and burns.

Additional reporting by Reuters.

Hawaii: Kilauea Volcano - In pictures

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