DOH INSTALLS AIR POLLUTION MONITORS AROUND KILAUEA LAVA FLOW

Posted on December 17, 2014

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DAVID Y. IGE
GOVERNOR

KEITH YAMAMOTO

ACTING DIRECTOR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 16, 2014       14-057

HAWAII DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH INSTALLS AIR POLLUTION MONITORS AROUND KILAUEA LAVA FLOW

HONOLULU — The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) has installed three temporary particulate monitors to measure and inform nearby residents on the Big Island of Hawaii of the air quality levels from the lava flow from Kilauea volcano. Two monitors are currently located in Pahoa and one in Leilani Estates. These monitors may be relocated or additional monitors installed as the lava flow moves or additional breakouts occur. The monitoring data and advisories may be viewed at: http://health.hawaii.gov/cab/hawaii-ambient-air-quality-data/ orhttp://www.airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=topics.smoke_wildfires

The University of Hawaii, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology has also developed a model to forecast the lava flow smoke in Puna. The smoke model can be viewed at: http://weather.hawaii.edu/vmap/smoke/

“Our monitoring data and smoke model will measure and predict air quality, but this information is no substitute for good judgment. People should consider for themselves how sensitive they are to smoke exposure and act accordingly, said Gary Gill, deputy director of Environmental Health. “The smoke impact at any place or time may change due to unpredictable wind and weather conditions.”

DOH recommends that residents in smoke affected areas avoid outdoor activities or physical exertion. People with respiratory illness or heart disease, older adults and children are urged to avoid smoke exposure. Smoke may worsen symptoms for individuals who have pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Individuals that have these conditions should keep their medication refilled and use daily (controller) medication as prescribed. Anyone who feels they may need medication or medical attention should contact their physician.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the lava flow and smoke conditions, residents and visitors are advised to listen to the Hawaii County Civil Defense updates and advisories.

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 MEDIA CONTACT:

Nolan Hirai

Chief, Clean Air Branch

(808) 586-4200

nolan.hirai@doh.hawaii.gov