The US Geological Survey has downgraded the alert for Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano but is still urging caution for residents and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will remain closed to visitors.
With volcanic activity easing, the USGS downgrading it from ‘warning’ to ‘watch.’
‘Warning’ is the highest alert and a ‘hazardous eruption is imminent, underway, or suspected.’
‘Watch’ means ‘heightened or escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption.’
National Park Service officials will use the lull in the volcano’s activity to assess the damage to the park and may reopen part of it if it is safe to do so, said park superintendent Cindy Orlando.
There is still a risk of collapse of crater walls, ocean entry points and at the summit, the USGS said, and tremors are also possible.
"Although no signs of imminent hazardous activity are present at this time, residents of the region near recently active fissures should stay informed, heed Civil Defense warnings, and be prepared, if necessary, to self-evacuate," it said in a Volcanic Activity Notice.
