Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is sounding the alarm bells for visitors and locals alike to exercise extreme caution around the seductive, but treacherous lava deltas on Hawaii Island. A newly discovered crack in the lava delta at Kapoho is just the latest crimson flag, warning of potential instability and perhaps even imminent collapse in the area.
The DLNR has been clear to never downplay the danger, with DLNR Chair Dawn Chang firmly stating, "The safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority, and we must emphasize that these newly created lands are not safe to traverse," in a statement obtained by KITV. This is coupled with a caution that extends beyond Kapoho, and includes other at-risk communities such as Pohoiki, Malama, and Kalapana.
Formed as molten lava meets the cooling embrace of the ocean, these deltas stretch out the geographical tongue of Hawaii's coastline. Yet this expansion is a far cry from stable ground. The DLNR's warning underscores the deceptive nature of the deltas – they might look solid, but they're as stable as the stock market on a bad day. And, just to sweeten the pot, the U.S Geological Survey warns that should a delta decide to throw in the towel, it could trigger events more explosive than a Fourth of July fireworks display, sending debris hurling inland or out to sea.
"The report of the crack at Kapoho is a stark reminder that even years after eruption, areas in the lava flow hazard zones are active and can be dangerous," Dawn Chang further elaborated, as reported by the DLNR website.
