Department of Agriculture

Volcanic Eruption at Kilauea

A series of volcanic eruptions and strong earthquakes due to activity on Kilauea volcano have struck Hawaii’s Big Island (Hawaii Island) starting around May 3, 2018.  There is a risk of lava flows, toxic gas emissions such as sulfur dioxide and other components of “vog.” In addition, ash emissions from the Halemaumau crater area is of increasing volume and drifting generally west and southwest from the Kilauea summit.  Communities downwind are likely to receive ashfall and should take necessary precautions.

Potential health effects of ash fall in animals are similar to humans with inhalation and respiratory discomfort, eye and skin irritation.

Environmental conditions presented by the volcanic activity on Hawaii Island can impact human and animals.

The Volcanic Ashfall Impacts Working Group has posted information on volcanic ash impacts and mitigation:  https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanic_ash/

HDOA information and assistance:

• Livestock producers who have questions or need assistance may contact HDOA’s Animal Industry Division at: (808) 483-7106.
• Agricultural Emergency Loan Program

UH-College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR)

• Information from CTAHR on Food Safety

• CTAHR information on volcanic emissions on plants and animals: https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/er

Other sources of information on volcanic activity: