Lava flows continue advance in Hawaii

PUNA, Hawaii - Lava flow breakouts on Hawaii's Big Island are continuing to advance, burning asphalt near the Pahoa Transfer Station, but not touching any of the buildings yet, according to Hawaii Civil Defense officials. The movement of the molten rock comes just days after slow moving lava torched a rural home.

Officials released a statement Wednesday saying there are three breakouts active and continuing to advance. One near a cemetery and two others near the station. None are currently a threat to lives or property but are being monitored closely.

Moderate to heavy smoke conditions have resulted from the flow and light trade winds are blowing smoke in the direction of the Leilani and Lower Puna areas of Big Island. Those who are sensitive or have respiratory problems were advised to remain indoors.

Hawaii County Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira told CBS affiliate KGMB that an evacuation advisory for residents down slope of the flow will continue. Residents will be kept informed of how the flow advances.

The U.S. Geological Service said the breakout that claimed the first house on Monday has inflated considerably since then -- in many spots doubling in size from three to six feet within 24 hours, KGMB reported.

The lava, which came from Kilauea volcano, emerged from a vent in June and entered Pahoa Oct. 26, when it crossed a country road at the edge of town. Since then, it smothered part of a cemetery and burned down a garden shed. It also burned tires, some metal materials and mostly vegetation in its path.

The leading edge of the molten rock had stalled Oct. 30, but lava was breaking away at several spots upslope.