Lava flow burns down home in Hawaii, continues to flow

A rural part of Hawaii's Big Island has seen a stream of lava burn down an empty house on Wednesday.

Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said Wednesday the slow-moving lava flow from Kilauea volcano doesn't pose an immediate threat to Pahoa residents, but they are monitoring it closely, according to the Associated Press.

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.

A family home was burnt down as a result of the stream of lava. "Yesterday, as the house was burning, we were pouring the foundation for our new house," the owners daughter, Dianna Wilcox, said Tuesday. "It was really a strange coincidence."

The family had moved out in September when it seemed likely that lava from Kilauea volcano would consume the house.

"If you're going to live on a volcano, it's about her, not us," she said referring to Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess. "If she wants her land back, then get out of the way. I like to call it 'paradise tax.'"

According to Hawaii News Now, smoke from the lava flow could pose health risks to residents downwind:

"Hawaii County officials say smoke conditions Monday are moderate to heavy with light trade winds blowing the smoke in a south southwest direction towards the Leilani and lower Puna areas. Residents down wind who may be sensitive or have respiratory problems are advised to take necessary precautions and to remain indoors, should the winds shift or smoke conditions increase."

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.