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Hawaii Volcanic Eruption Update

Shane Engel • May 18, 2018

FRIDAY MAY 18, 2018 UPDATE ON ERUPTION

The situation near Leilani Estates near the famed Kiluaua volcano on the big island of Hawaii remains difficult. There was an eruption at the crater Thursday, May 17, that sent hot toxic gases, lava and ashes into the air. Local HOPEww chapter members in Hiloe felt several small earthquakes as a result of the eruptions. All of the members of our partner Church, the Big Island Church of Christ are fine, but many have friends and family members who live close to the volcano and have been evacuated or whose homes have been lost. Schools are starting to close in the area due to the ashe in the air.

The small but powerful group of 20 volunteers and members of the Big Island Church, in Hiloe have been serving their neighbors in need.. "we have found housing for one family and are actively looking for temporary housing arrangement for two other families and friends of your brothers and sisters in Christ."

The Big Island Church is taking a special contribution for the disaster this Sunday.

The HOPE worldwide Team is in contact with Gary Roberson, the leader of the Big Island Church. We are contacting our American Red Cross partners to setup partner arrangements on the island for the disciples in Hawaii to serve in the direct area that is affected.

To help survivors of this and disasters around the world, please consider giving to the HOPE worldwide Disaster Fund.
Photo provided by USGS.

Please be praying for the people of Hawaii as the have endured days of volcanic eruptions and the USGS (United States Geological Services) has warned more violent eruptions could be imminent, shooting rocks weighing several tons over half a mile, hurling pebble-sized projectiles several miles and smothering areas up to 20 miles away with ash.

Gary Roberson, minister of the Big Island Church send us this short report:

The Kilauea volcano erupted on May 3rd, causing lava to flow through the Puna, Hawaii district and setting off a number of earthquakes. Evacuation was ordered for approximately 1,700 people, and more may be forced to evacuate in the future. To date, 35 structures have been destroyed, including 26 homes. Due to the dangers of lava, fire, further eruptions, and poisonous gases, the people were forced to abandon their homes with little time to prepare. No one from the Church on the Big Island lives in this area. However, family and friends of the disciples have had to evacuate and have lost their homes. This has been such a devastating time for these families. Because of the uncertainty of the eruption, there is no way to determine how long these people will be displaced – even if their home was not destroyed. “

Mahalo,

Gary Roberson, Minister

Big Island Church of Christ

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE HOPEww DISASTER RESPONSE FUND

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