Lava flow from spewing fissure threatens key escape route for remaining residents on Hawaii's Big Island
Authorities warn people who stay behind that if they get trapped and call for help, emergency personnel may not respond and they may be liable for rescue costs
Authorities on Hawaii’s Big Island warn that a new eruption of molten rock from a 220-foot (67-metre) high fountain of lava is channelling its way within a quarter-mile (400 metres) of a key escape-route intersection on the most threatened part of the island.
The Big Island, also known as the island of Hawaii, is about 200 miles (321km) southeast of Oahu, where the capital, Honolulu is located.
Hawaiian street wiped out by tide of lava after Kilauea volcano erupts
The US Geological Survey reported late Friday that the molten rock was approaching the intersection of highways 132 and 137 in an area known as Four Corners on the southeast corner of the island.
The lava, which the USGS said has covered a of 5.5 square mile area, has burned at least 400 power poles, cutting power to most of the area, according to Hawaii Electric Light Co.
Hawaii Civil Defense spokesman Talmadge Mango said Friday that at least 87 buildings have been destroyed since the Kilauea volcano erupted May 3.