Kalapana lava viewing area, Hawaii, USA (2009)
In 1990, lava from Kilauea volcano engulfed Kalapana, a historic Hawaiian fishing village and residential area, as well as the black sand beach at Kaimu. Hawaii’s oldest heiau (temple), two subdivisions and several miles of public highway were also destroyed. No lives were lost, but 182 homes were swallowed by lava. Though a few residents remain, the area is now primarily known as a lava viewing site on the Big Island, about 45 minutes south of Hilo and at the end of Hwy 130 in Puna. It is a sobering reminder of the raw power of nature.
There are reminders to be safe and respectful of the Hawaiian culture, and to protect natural and cultural resources. Many believe that lava is the kinolau, or physical embodiment, of volcano goddess Pele. Therefore, poking lava with sticks or throwing/placing things in or above the lava flow to watch them burn is considered not only culturally disrespectful, but it is also against federal law. Newly formed land areas are extremely unstable, and could collapse into the ocean at any time. There is also the threat of acidic laze, a hazardous chemical reaction of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and seawater, that occurs when the extreme heat of the lava enters the sea, rapidly boils and vaporizes the seawater into visible white plumes.
Kalapana lava viewing area, Hawaii, USA (2009)
In 1990, lava from Kilauea volcano engulfed Kalapana, a historic Hawaiian fishing village and residential area, as well as the black sand beach at Kaimu. Hawaii’s oldest heiau (temple), two subdivisions and several miles of public highway were also destroyed. No lives were lost, but 182 homes were swallowed by lava. Though a few residents remain, the area is now primarily known as a lava viewing site on the Big Island, about 45 minutes south of Hilo and at the end of Hwy 130 in Puna. It is a sobering reminder of the raw power of nature.
There are reminders to be safe and respectful of the Hawaiian culture, and to protect natural and cultural resources. Many believe that lava is the kinolau, or physical embodiment, of volcano goddess Pele. Therefore, poking lava with sticks or throwing/placing things in or above the lava flow to watch them burn is considered not only culturally disrespectful, but it is also against federal law. Newly formed land areas are extremely unstable, and could collapse into the ocean at any time. There is also the threat of acidic laze, a hazardous chemical reaction of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and seawater, that occurs when the extreme heat of the lava enters the sea, rapidly boils and vaporizes the seawater into visible white plumes.