June 5, 2018 Lava Torches Hundreds of Homes
Kilauea Volcano’s current eruption centered in Leilani Estates on the Big Island of Hawaii has destroyed nearly 200 homes in just the past 36 hours. The beach communities of Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland, some six miles downslope from the main active vent were inundated late Sunday evening. By this morning, lava had absolutely decimated the pristine coastal vacation spots, which included some of the best snorkeling reefs in East Hawaii. Many of the homes in the upscale gated community of Kapoho Beach Lots were valued at several million dollars each. These were vacation homes and rentals, as well as primary residences. The eruption, which has advanced up to 656 yards per hour, and fountained up to 250 in the air, has covered 7.7 square miles of land, and destroyed well over 450 total structures in just over a month. Residents of the Puna District in East Hawaii are reeling from this latest blow, many displaced, seeking shelter with friends, relatives, and in community facilities throughout the island. Mahalo to Paradise Helicopters, who make our overflight videos possible. Kudos to pilot Pete Stachowicz, who guided Bruce Omori, Leilani and Dinosaur Ducky on an amazing adventure above Pele’s canvas! 
Mahalo to Paradise Helicopters and Bruce Omori at Extreme Exposure