A third Alaskan volcano has erupted. AVO reports that Kasatochi has erupted within the last one to two hours. The plume is officialy at 35,000 feet, however, unofficial reports are 40,000+.

From AVO:

AVO/USGS Volcanic Activity Notice

Volcano: Kasatochi

Current Volcano Alert Level: WARNING

Current Aviation Color Code: RED

Issued: Thursday, August 7, 2008, 3:26 PM AKDT (20080807/2326Z)
Source: Alaska Volcano Observatory
Notice Number: 2008/A24
Location: N 52 deg 10 min W 175 deg 30 min
Elevation: 1030 ft (314 m)
Area: Aleutians Alaska

Volcanic Activity Summary: Satellite data show an ash plume to an altitude of at least 35,000 ft. in the vicinity of Kasatochi Volcano 22:30 UTC (14:30 ADT). The plume is drifting to the south-southwest. Based on this information, we are elevating the color code to RED/WARNING. This follows the recent increase in volcanic and earthquake activity.

Hazard Analysis:
[Ash cloud] Ash cloud to at least 35,000 feet
[General hazards] Ash confirmed by satellite data

Remarks: AVO is monitoring this situation closely and has its operations room staffed 24 hours per day. More information about activity at Kasatochi Volcano can be found on the AVO web siteat www.avo.alaska.edu or by calling 907-786-7497.

Kasatochi Island represents the emergent summit of a predominantly submarine volcano composed of basaltic and andesitic flows and pyroclastics. Kasatochi has had no known historical eruptions; however, the volcano is mantled by a cover of young appearing pyroclastic debris indicative of relatively recent explosive activity. The island consists of a single, undissected cone with a central lake-filled crater about 0.75 km in diameter. A maximum height of 314 m is on the southern crater rim; elevation of the lake is less than about 60 m. Kasatochi Island is at the northern end of a 15-km-long, 6-km-wide submarine ridge that is normal to the trend of the Andreanof Islands. Water depths along the ridge are less than 90 m; if Kasatochi is constructed entirely on the ridge, the total height of the volcanic pile is only a little more than 400 m. Kasatochi is 83 km (52 mi) east of the community of Adak , and 90 km (55 mi) west of the community of Atka.

More as soon as I get it.

After some time away I am planning to restart this site, albeit with a different approach. Keep checking back.

An eruption occurred today at Cleveland in Alaska. Two boats reported seeing a mushroom could over the volcano and now AVO reports pilots are seeing an ash cloud. The Cleveland volcano webcam is behind low clouds.

AVO/USGS Volcanic Activity Notice

Volcano: Cleveland

Current Volcano Alert Level: WATCH
Previous Volcano Alert Level: ADVISORY

Current Aviation Color Code: ORANGE
Previous Aviation Color Code: YELLOW

Issued: Monday, July 21, 2008, 1:16 PM AKDT (20080721/2116Z)
Source: Alaska Volcano Observatory
Notice Number: 2008/A14
Location: N 52 deg 49 min W 169 deg 56 min
Elevation: 5676 ft (1730 m)
Area: Aleutians Alaska

Volcanic Activity Summary: Reports from fishing boats indicate an eruption of Cleveland volcano occurred at approximately 12:00 AKDT (20:00 UTC). These reports indicate that at sea level the ash may be moving to the northwest. AVO has no information about the height of the ash cloud at this time.

Remarks: AVO monitors Cleveland Volcano with satellite imagery as weather allows. The lack of a real-time seismic network at Cleveland means that AVO is unable to track local earthquake activity related to volcanic unrest. Short-lived explosions of ash that could exceed 20,000 ft above sea level can occur without warning and may go undetected on satellite imagery. Please see http://www.avo.alaska.edu/activity/Cleveland.php for more information.

For the first time ever a Volcanic Ash Advisory has been released for a volcano in Hawaii:

FVXX21 KNES 242047 CCA
VA ADVISORY -CORRECTION
DTG: 20080324/2046Z

VAAC: WASHINGTON

VOLCANO: KILAUEA 1302-01
PSN: N1925 W15516

AREA: HAWAIIAN.IS

SUMMIT ELEV: 4009 FT (1222 M)

ADVISORY NR: 2008/001

INFO SOURCE: GOES-11. GFS WINDS. USGS.

ERUPTION DETAILS: SMALL ERUPTION REPORTED

OBS VA DTG: 24/1930Z

OBS VA CLD: VA NOT IDENTIFIABLE FROM SATELLITE
DATA WINDS SFC/FL100 050/5-10KT

FCST VA CLD +6HR: 25/0130Z NOT AVBL

FCST VA CLD +12HR: 25/0730Z NOT AVBL

FCST VA CLD +18HR: 25/1330Z NOT AVBL

RMK: CORRECTED FOR HEIGHT OF ASH
THE HVO REPORTED THE STEAM PLUME FROM THE VOLCANO
IS NOW CONTAINING ASH. THE WEB CAM CONFIRMS THIS
ERUPTION. REPORTED HEIGHT IS 3000-5000 AGL
MOVING SW. ASH IS NOT SEEN DUE TO CLOUD COVER
OVER THE HALEMA’UMA’U CRATER. …SPAMPATA/WALTER

NXT ADVISORY: WILL BE ISSUED BY 20080325/0245Z

NNNN

You can see the ash on the webcam located here.

The daily update for Kilauea from HVO:

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATE
Monday, March 24, 2008 06:46 HST (Monday, March 24, 2008 16:46 UTC)

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW#1302-01-)
19.43°N 155.29°W, Summit Elevation 4009 ft (1222 m)
Volcano Alert Level: WATCH
Aviation Color Code: ORANGE

This report, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO):

Activity Summary for last 24 hours: Kilauea Volcano is active at two different locations. Lava continued to flow into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Ki ocean entries. The east margin of the flow field has not advanced significantly. At the summit, no new explosions have occurred but there was eruption of small incandescent particles overnight. Sulfur dioxide emission rates and seismic tremor levels continued elevated to several times background levels.

Hazard Summary: Hazardous conditions exist in four areas on Kilauea volcano - potentially harmful sulfur dioxide concentrations and possible small explosions at the summit, potentially harmful sulfur dioxide concentrations and unstable conditions around the Pu`u `O`o/July 21/TEB vent area, lava flow threat to the Royal Gardens subdivision and the coastal plain to the southeast, and hazardous conditions associated with lava entering the ocean.

1. The current increase in sulfur dioxide emission rates at the summit means that SO2 concentrations in the air are likely to be at hazardous levels for areas downwind of emission sources in Halema`uma`u crater. The National Park Service has closed Crater Rim Drive through the south caldera area until further notice (http://www.nps.gov/havo/closed_areas.htm). Most people are sensitive to sulfur dioxide at these levels. Children and individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing problems especially should avoid downwind areas. During tradewind conditions (brisk winds from the northeast), concentrations will be highest and most hazardous in the south caldera: southwest rift zone, south caldera pullouts, and the Halema`uma`u overlook parking lot - The National Park Service has closed this section of Crater Rim Drive. During weak or southerly winds, concentrations may be high and hazardous throughout the summit area of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and nearby communities. Stay informed about SO2 concentrations in continuously monitored areas at Jaggar Museum and Kilauea Visitor Center (http:// www.nature.nps.gov/air/webcams/parks/havoso2alert/havoalert.cfm).

The possibility of future small explosions from Halema`uma`u Crater cannot yet be ruled out.

2. Vent areas and lava channels are hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Sulfur dioxide emissions from Pu`u `O`o are high and result in hazardous concentrations downwind. Access to the 7/21 eruption site in the Kahauale`a Natural Area Reserve is closed (see http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/chair/pio/HtmlNR/07-N076.htm). Wao Kele o Puna is also closed.

3. There continues to be a threat from lava flows to anyone within Royal Gardens subdivision and the coastal plain. As long as lava flows are active south of fissure D, the subdivision is within likely paths of future flows. The rootless shields, which are now less than two miles from the subdivision, can collapse and release lava flows that advance that distance within a few days. Tube- or channel-fed lava flows established within the subdivision and on the coastal plain remain a threat due to tube ruptures which can produce new lava flows. Lava flows advancing through vegetation are hazardous and can produce fire and methane explosions that propel chunks of lava and rock several feet into the air. Hawai`i County Civil Defense has been notified and is taking appropriate measures (www.lavainfo.us).

4. Lava entering the ocean poses two additional hazards - potential collapse and laze. Lava entering the ocean builds a delta over its own rubble that is extremely unstable. That delta can collapse without warning and expose very hot surfaces to waves which can explode and throw rock debris up to one-quarter mile inland. For these reason, spectators should avoid the delta and the area one-quarter mile inland. The interaction between seawater and lava produces a steam plume laced with acids and fine particles of volcanic glass or ‘laze’ that is unhealthy if inhaled and can produce skin or eye irritation if contacted. Hawai`i County continues to open a public viewing area between 2 and 10 pm with the last car allowed in at 8 pm. For details, see www.lavainfo.us.

TEB lava flows at the coast as of yesterday evening (from combined HVO and NPS eruption crew reports): Lava continued to flow into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Ki ocean entries with three strong steam plumes. The eastern margin of the flow field had not advanced and was 120 m (400 ft) west of the County viewing area. There was no burning in the kipuka consistent with a lack of flow activity along the western kipuka margin. The lava tube system seems, for the moment, to be stable and transporting lava efficiently to the ocean entries.

Last 24 hours of the TEB vent area: There was no incandescence from the TEB or rootless shields overnight. There was a breakout on the Kalalua flow west of Kalalua Cone that was indirectly visible to the HAVO eruption crew at the coast starting around 4:30 pm. Seismic tremor levels have been slowly increasing over the past week, but the levels remained at low values; the levels dropped to their pre-increase level starting at 10:35 pm.

Last 24 hours at Pu`u `O`o: Diffuse incandescence was observed again by webcam overnight in the crater. The tiltmeter recorded longer-term deflation from a source to the southeast. GPS receivers on opposite sides of the crater continued to record contraction at a rate averaging 2 cm/month over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels were slightly elevated but low values. The SO2 emission rate was about 2,900 tonnes/day on March 21.

Last 24 hours at Kilauea summit: There were no new explosions but there was eruption of small incandescent particles overnight that appeared to be waning this morning; some particles may have made it to the rim of Halema`uma`u Crater and will be sought out this morning to determine whether they are lava blobs or old rock fragments similar to the 3/19 deposits. Seismic tremor levels continued to be elevated above their already high pre-explosion levels with a small decrease starting at 9:30 pm. The summit tiltmeter network recorded continued weak deflation from a source in the southwest caldera although the shorter-term tilt does not point to a single source. One earthquake was located beneath the summit area and two just west of the southwest rift zone.

The sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rate from the summit continued to be elevated and was about 1,200 tonnes/day on Mar. 21, compared to a background rate of between 150-200 tonnes/day.

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were again below detection limits at Jaggar museum and Kilauea Visitors Center. Trade (northeasterly) winds kept gas emissions in the south caldera where SO2 concentrations were up to 40 ppm in areas downwind of Halema`uma`u crater along Crater Rim Drive (mostly between Halema`uma`u parking lot and the southwest rift zone pullout during trade winds) and up to 140 ppm near the Halema`uma`u overlook close to the new vent.

Update: March 24 12:27 EDT:
Kilauea Information Release:

Kilauea Information Release issued Mar 24, 2008 16:25 HST Volcanic-Alert Level WATCH - Aviation Color Code ORANGE
Halema`uma`u gas plume becomes ash-laden

There is now continuous emission of ash from the new gas vent in Halema`uma`u Crater, turning the formerly white cloud of fume a dusty-brown color. The top of the ash plume, which is currently being blown to the southwest of the Crater, reaches 0.5 to 1.0 mile above ground level. Hawai`i aviation agencies have been notified of the potential hazard to aircraft.

Last night, small incandescent particles were observed erupting from the vent below the Halema`uma`u Overlook. A few particles were ejected with sufficient velocity to be deposited on the rim of Halema`uma`u Crater. This morning, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists reported finding Pele’s hair, Pele’s tears, and spatter in the overlook area, indicating that particles ejected overnight included molten lava-the first erupted from the new vent, which is now 30-35 m (100 ft) wide. The largest fragments of spatter, or blobs of molten rock, found on the crater rim are 10 cm (4 inches) in size.

The amount of lava erupted from the vent last night was small, but it represents the first lava erupted from anywhere in Halema`uma`u since 1982. Previous eruptions included lava flowing into the crater from fissure eruptions on its southwest rim in 1974 and 1971 and an 8 month eruption in Halema`uma`u in 1967-1968 that created a lake of lava that covered the entire crater floor.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to monitor the activity. Photos, text updates, a new Halema`uma`u Crater webcam, and details about the Kilauea 1924 explosive eruption can be found at the HVO website hvo.wr.usgs.gov.

Current Kilauea status from HVO:

Kilauea Daily Update issued Mar 20, 2008 06:49 HST Volcano Alert Level WATCH - Aviation Color Code ORANGE
HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY DAILY UPDATE
Thursday, March 20, 2008 06:49 HST (Thursday, March 20, 2008 16:49 UTC)

KILAUEA VOLCANO (CAVW#1302-01-)
19.43°N 155.29°W, Summit Elevation 4009 ft (1222 m)
Volcano Alert Level: WATCH
Aviation Color Code: ORANGE

This report, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), was prepared by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO):

Activity Summary for last 24 hours: Lava continued to flow into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Ki ocean entries. The east margin of the flow field continued to advance slowly eastward into the adjacent kipuka and was about 150 m (500 ft) east of the County viewing area yesterday morning. No new explosions have occurred at Kilauea summit. Sulfur dioxide emission rates and seismic tremor levels continued elevated to several times background levels at Kilauea summit.

Hazard Summary: Hazardous conditions exist in four areas on Kilauea volcano - potentially harmful sulfur dioxide concentrations and possible small explosions at the summit, potentially harmful sulfur dioxide concentrations and unstable conditions around the Pu`u `O`o/July 21/TEB vent area, lava flow threat to the Royal Gardens subdivision and the coastal plain to the southeast, and hazardous conditions associated with lava entering the ocean.

1. The current increase in sulfur dioxide emission rates at the summit means that SO2 concentrations in the air are likely to be at hazardous levels for areas downwind of emission sources in Halema`uma`u crater. The National Park Service has closed Crater Rim Drive through the south caldera area until further notice (http://www.nps.gov/havo/closed_areas.htm). Most people are sensitive to sulfur dioxide at these levels. Children and individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing problems especially should avoid downwind areas. During tradewind conditions (brisk winds from the northeast), concentrations will be highest and most hazardous in the south caldera: southwest rift zone, south caldera pullouts, and the Halema`uma`u overlook parking lot - The National Park Service has closed this section of Crater Rim Drive. During weak or southerly winds, concentrations may be high and hazardous throughout the summit area of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and nearby communities. Stay informed about SO2 concentrations in continuously monitored areas at Jaggar Museum and Kilauea Visitor Center (http:// www.nature.nps.gov/air/webcams/parks/havoso2alert/havoalert.cfm).

There is a possibility of small explosions from Halema`uma`u Crater.

2. Vent areas and lava channels are hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Sulfur dioxide emissions from Pu`u `O`o are high and result in hazardous concentrations downwind. Access to the 7/21 eruption site in the Kahauale`a Natural Area Reserve is closed (see http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/chair/pio/HtmlNR/07-N076.htm). Wao Kele o Puna is also closed.

3. There continues to be a threat from lava flows to anyone within Royal Gardens subdivision and the coastal plain. As long as lava flows are active south of fissure D, the subdivision is within likely flow paths of future flows. The rootless shields, which are now less than two miles from the subdivision, can collapse and release lava flows that advance that distance within a few days. Tube- or channel-fed lava flows established within the subdivision and on the coastal plain remain a threat due to tube ruptures which can produce new lava flows. Lava flows advancing through vegetation are hazardous and can produce fire and methane explosions that propel chunks of lava and rock several feet into the air. Hawai`i County Civil Defense has been notified and is taking appropriate measures (www.lavainfo.us).

4. Lava entering the ocean poses two additional hazards - potential collapse and laze. Lava entering the ocean builds a delta over its own rubble that is extremely unstable. That delta can collapse without warning and expose very hot surfaces to waves which can explode and throw rock debris up to one-quarter mile inland. For these reason, spectators should avoid the delta and the area one-quarter mile inland. The interaction between seawater and lava produces a steam plume laced with acids and fine particles of volcanic glass or ‘laze’ that is unhealthy if inhaled and can produce skin or eye irritation if contacted. Hawai`i County continues to prepare for safe public viewing hopefully this weekend. For details, see www.lavainfo.us.

TEB lava flows at the coast as of yesterday evening (from combined HVO and NPS eruption crew reports): Lava continued to flow into the ocean at the Waikupanaha and Ki ocean entries; evening visitors could see nearly a dozen entry points on the Waikupanaha delta but only incandescence in steam from the Ki entry. The eastern margin of active lava flows was still about 150 m (500 ft) west of the County viewing area yesterday morning and creeping eastward and over the old sea cliff onto the 1990 lava delta. Flows edging through the kipuka continued to produce local fires.

Last 24 hours of the TEB vent area: There was no incandescence from the TEB, rootless shields, or the Kalalua flow visible in the webcam overnight. Seismic tremor levels were at low levels.

Last 24 hours at Pu`u `O`o: Diffuse incandescence was observed by webcam overnight in the crater. The tiltmeter again recorded weak deflation from a source to the souteast. GPS receivers on opposite sides of the crater continued to record contraction at a rate averaging 2 cm/month over the past 3 months. Seismic tremor levels were at low values. The SO2 emission rate was about 2,050 tonnes/day on March 19.

Last 24 hours at Kilauea summit: Seismic tremor levels have been elevated above their already-elevated levels since the explosion at 2:58 HST March 19. The tremor levels abruptly decreased beginning at 2:30 am only at the seismometer nearest the Halema`uma`u gas vent. At about the same time, incandescence diminished from the the gas vent as viewed in the new webcam. The summit tiltmeter network recorded continued weak deflation. Only one small earthquake was located beneath Kilauea caldera and two were located on south flank faults.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rates from the summit area have been elevated at several times background values since early January and have more than doubled since March 12. The most recent emission rate measurement was about 1,600 tonnes/day on Mar. 19, compared to a background rate of between 150-200 tonnes/day.

Sulfur dioxide concentrations were again below detection limits at Jaggar museum and Kilauea Visitors Center. Trade (northeasterly) winds kept gas emissions in the south caldera where SO2 concentrations were up to 40 ppm in areas downwind of Halema`uma`u crater along Crater Rim Drive (mostly between Halema`uma`u parking lot and the southwest rift zone pullout during trade winds) and up to 140 ppm near the Halema`uma`u overlook close to the new vent.

An explosive eruption of Kilauea occured this morning at the summit. The first time since 1924.

Here is the update:

USGS HVO News Release
March 19, 2008
At 2:58 a.m. H.s.t on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, a small explosion occurred at Halema‘uma‘u Crater at the summit of Kilauea Volcano in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This event was erroneously reported as an earthquake earlier this morning. The explosion scattered debris over an area of about 75 acres (30 hectares), covering a portion of Crater Rim Drive and damaging the Halema‘uma‘u overlook. No lava was erupted as part of the explosion, suggesting that the activity was driven by hydrothermal or gas sources.

In addition to damaging the overlook, explosive debris covers the trail to the overlook, the Halema‘uma‘u parking area, and the portion of Crater Rim Drive adjacent to the parking area. On Crater Rim Drive the debris was up to 2 centimeters in size, with the size and thickness of debris increasing toward the overlook. The largest observed block ejected during the explosion was about 1 cubic meter (35 cubic feet) and must have been propelled from the vent located more than 70 m (230 feet) below the crater rim. Small impact craters from 30 cm (1 foot) blocks are abundant in the Halema‘uma‘u overlook area. Rock debris also extends halfway across the floor of Halema‘uma‘u Crater. The debris is composed of rock fragments that were derived from the walls of Halema‘uma‘u Crater. No fresh lava was observed on the floor of Halema‘uma‘u or in the ejected debris.

At 2:55 am, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory recorded a series of seismic events that may have been shallow, high-frequency earthquakes or minor explosions. The main explosion at 2:58 was associated with long period seismicity. Low frequency sound waves were also detected by the University of Hawai`i infrasound laboratory, operated by Dr. Milton Garces. These signals have persisted through this morning indicating continuing energetic release of gas from the vent in Halema‘uma‘u Crater.

The explosion produced a small crater along the east wall of Halema‘uma‘u that is about 20-30 meters (65-100 feet) in diameter. The crater occupies the area in which incandescence had been observed during the previous week. Sulfur dioxide emissions from the new explosion crater are still elevated, and sounds of rock breaking are frequent.

This is the first explosion in Halema`uma`u crater since 1924 and the first eruption of any kind in Kilauea caldera since September 1982.

Future explosive activity is possible and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory continues to monitor the activity. Photos, text updates, a new Halema`uma`u crater webcam, and details about the Kilauea 1924 explosive eruption can be found at the HVO website

A webcam now overlooks Halema‘uma‘u, you can find it here.

Current Veniaminof status from AVO:

VENIAMINOF VOLCANO (CAVW #1102-07-)
56°11′52″ N 159°23′35″ W, Summit Elevation 8225 ft (2507 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: YELLOW
Current Volcano Alert Level: ADVISORY

Seismicity remains above normal. Partly cloudy webcam views show steaming from the active intracaldera cinder cone.

There are no indications that more vigorous activity is imminent or even likely. Small ash bursts are typical of activity at Veniaminof over the past several years. We expect that steam and ash emissions to continue intermittently posing a hazard to people and low-flying aircraft in the vicinity of the active cone.

AVO will continue to monitor activity at Mount Veniaminof using seismic data, satellite images, internet camera data and observer reports.

Current Anatahan status from HVO-CNMI:

Anatahan Daily Update issued Feb 27, 2008 10:56 MPT Volcano Alert Level WATCH - Aviation Color Code ORANGE
Report prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey.

Levels of seismicity at Anatahan remain elevated. Mostly clear satellite views did not show an ash plume today.

OMI satellite data show that the volcano continues to produce a persistent plume of sulfur dioxide.

Access to the island may be restricted by the CNMI government. Please contact the EMO to get the latest information.

USGS contact information: duty scientist (808) 967-8815 http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/cnmistatus.php

Current Kilauea status from HVO:

Kilauea Daily Update issued Feb 26, 2008 09:17 HST Volcano Alert Level WATCH - Aviation Color Code ORANGE
This report, in addition to maps, photos, and webcam images (available using the menu bar above), prepared by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO):

Activity Summary for last 24 hours: Two lava flows were advancing seaward through Royal Gardens subdivision. A second lava flow remained active between the rootless shields and Kalalua Cone. Seismic tremor levels and sulfur dioxide emission rates were elevated to several times background levels at Kilauea summit.

Hazard Summary: Three hazardous conditions exist currently on Kilauea volcano - potentially harmful sulfur dioxide concentrations at the summit, dangerous conditions around the Pu`u `O`o/July 21/November 21 vent area, and lava flow threat to the Royal Gardens subdivision.

The current increase in sulfur dioxide emission rates at the summit means that SO2 concentrations are likely to be at hazardous levels for visitor areas downwind of Halema`uma`u, especially during weak wind conditions or winds from the south. Most people are sensitive to sulfur dioxide at these levels. Children and individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing problems should avoid areas in the south caldera: southwest rift zone, south caldera pullout, and the Halema`uma`u overlook parking lot. Stay informed about SO2 concentrations in continuously monitored areas (Jaggar Museum and Kilauea Visitor\\\’s Center). The National Park Service has closed Crater Rim Drive through the south caldera (http://www.nps.gov/havo/closed_areas.htm).

Vent areas and lava channels are hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Sulfur dioxide emissions from Pu`u `O`o are very high and result in hazardous concentrations downwind. Access to the 7/21 eruption site in the Kahauale`a Natural Area Reserve is closed (see http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/chair/pio/HtmlNR/07-N076.htm). Wao Kele o Puna is also closed.

There continues to be a threat from lava flows to residents of Royal Gardens subdivision. As long as lava flows are active south of fissure D, the subdivision is within likely downslope flow paths. The rootless shields, which are now less than two miles from the subdivision, can collapse and release lava flows that advance that distance within a few days. Lava flows advancing through vegetation are hazardous and can produce fire and methane explosions that propel chunks of lava and rock several feet into the air. Hawai`i County Civil Defense has been notified and is taking appropriate measures (www.lavainfo.us).

Last 24 hours at 7/21 eruption site: Yesterday\’s Chopper 1 overflight plus subsequent reports located two lava flows advancing through Royal Gardens - one along Royal Avenue and the other in the vicinity of Prince Avenue (west of Royal). As of this morning, the Royal finger may be approaching Plumeria St. at about the 900\’ elevation.

The lava flow between the rootless shield complex and Kalalua Cone was sporadically active early this morning although views are largely blocked by fume.

Last 24 hours at Pu`u `O`o: No incandescence was observed overnight but a few glimpses of the sunken crater floor could be seen during the day. The Pu`u `O`o tiltmeter recorded no significant changes in the past week. GPS receivers recorded an average contraction of 2 mm/month across the cone.

Last 24 hours at Kilauea summit: The summit tiltmeter network recorded no significant changes. GPS receivers across the caldera have not recorded significant long-term change (no contraction or extension) since early February. Seismic tremor levels dropped about 25% at 5:20 this morning; the drop was preceded by a handful of LP earthquakes. Four small, deep earthquakes were located beneath the southwest rift zone, another four small quakes were located beneath Kilauea caldera and the area immediately north, and two were located on south flank faults.

Sulfur dioxide concentrations peaked at 3,500 ppb yesterday morning at Jaggar museum and has already reached 500 ppb at Jaggar Museum and KVC this morning.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission rates from the summit area have been elevated at 2-4 times background values since early January. The emission rate was about 850 tonnes/day on Feb. 21 (the last time we had sufficiently strong trade winds to make an emission rate measurement), compared to a background rate of between 150-200 tonnes/day. The resulting SO2 concentrations exceed 1,000 ppb (1 ppm) in areas downwind of Halema`uma`u crater (almost half of Crater Rim Drive between Halema`uma`u parking lot and the southwest rift zone during trade winds). SO2 concentrations exceed 10 ppm for a short portion of the road between the Halema`uma`u parking lot and the south caldera pullout.

Carbon dioxide concentrations yesterday lingered around between 2% and 3% in our instrument vault in the floor of Kilauea caldera. Normal non-volcanic background concentrations are 0.036%. Carbon dioxide emission rates at Kilauea summit have been elevated since 2005.

Current Celveland status from AVO:

CLEVELAND VOLCANO (CAVW #1101-24-)
52°49′20″ N 169°56′42″ W, Summit Elevation 5676 ft (1730 m)
Current Aviation Color Code: YELLOW
Current Volcano Alert Level: ADVISORY

Mostly clear satellite views showed nothing unusual at Cleveland today. AVO has received no reports of activity at Cleveland over the last 24 hours.

AVO monitors Cleveland Volcano with satellite imagery as weather allows. The lack of a real-time seismic network at Cleveland means that AVO is unable to track local earthquake activity related to volcanic unrest. Short-lived explosions of ash that could exceed 20,000 ft above sea level can occur without warning and may go undetected on satellite imagery.Please see http://www.avo.alaska.edu/activity/Cleveland.php for more information.