Laze Plume Rises as Kilauea Lava Reaches Ocean

Officials warned of a lava haze plume rising from the ocean where lava met the ocean in Puna, Hawaii, on Monday, May 21. US Geographical Survey aerial footage shows the white plume during an overflight to assess the area.

Lava haze, or laze, is formed when hot lava enters the ocean. “The interaction sends hydrochloric acid and steam with fine glass particles into the air,” USGS said. “Laze drifts with the wind and can be a health hazard for people downwind. Laze is irritating to the lungs, eyes and skin.”

Officials warned area residents evacuations could come due to the laze, a news report said.

Lava also continued to flow from the Kilauea volcano fissures, and the lava was encroaching on the Puna Geothermal Venture property, Hawaii County officials said. Workers are efforting to make the site secure, officials said. Credit: USGS via Storyful