Aloha! 🌺 If you’re planning to visit or live on the Big Island of Hawaii, one thing you’ll encounter is the concept of lava zones. These zones are a key part of understanding the island’s volcanic landscape and the risks associated with living in an area with active volcanoes. Whether you're looking to purchase property or simply want to learn more about the island’s unique geography, it’s important to understand how lava zones impact both the beauty and safety of the Big Island.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what lava zones are, how they’re determined, and why they matter to both residents and visitors.
What Are Lava Zones?
Lava zones are geographical areas on the Big Island that are ranked based on their risk of volcanic eruptions and lava flow. The island is divided into nine lava zones, with Zone 1 representing the highest risk and Zone 9 representing the lowest. These zones were established by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO), which monitors volcanic activity on the island. The zones are based on historical lava flows and volcanic activity, providing a snapshot of the likelihood of lava flow in any given area.
The Big Island is home to Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, as well as Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth. Both of these volcanoes are known to have erupted multiple times in recent history, which makes understanding lava zones particularly important for residents and anyone considering a visit.
Lava Zone Breakdown
Lava Zone 1 (Highest Risk): This zone covers areas that have experienced frequent and recent lava flows. It is the most active region for volcanic eruptions. Lava Zone 1 is generally located near active volcanoes like Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Properties in this zone have the highest likelihood of being affected by lava flow, so homeowners and property buyers here face the greatest risk.
Lava Zone 2: This area is still considered high-risk but may have experienced lava flows less frequently than Zone 1. It’s typically located near the edges of Zone 1 or in regions that have historically seen eruptions in recent decades.
Lava Zone 3-6 (Moderate Risk): These zones are less frequently affected by lava flows but still have a moderate risk, based on their proximity to active volcanoes and the history of volcanic activity in those areas. Many residential areas outside of the immediate vicinity of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa fall into Zones 3-6.
Lava Zone 7-9 (Low Risk): Areas in these zones are farthest from the active volcanic areas and have seen minimal lava flow in the past century. These zones are considered to have the lowest risk of lava flows but could still be affected by future volcanic activity, albeit at a much lower probability.
Why Do Lava Zones Matter?
1. Property Value and Insurance
One of the most important reasons to be aware of lava zones is their impact on property values and homeowners’ insurance. Properties located in Lava Zones 1 and 2 are generally less expensive than those in lower-risk areas, due to the increased risk of lava flows. If you’re considering purchasing property on the Big Island, it’s crucial to know which lava zone the property is in, as it can affect both the price you pay and the insurance coverage you can obtain.
Homeowners insurance in high-risk lava zones can be difficult to secure, or it may be more expensive. In some cases, special volcanic insurance may be required in addition to standard coverage. Some insurance companies may not offer full coverage for lava damage in high-risk areas, so it’s essential to understand your options before committing to a property.
2. Evacuation Planning
In the event of volcanic activity, understanding the lava zones helps residents and visitors know which areas are most at risk. If you live in a higher-risk zone, it’s crucial to have an evacuation plan in place and stay informed about the latest volcanic activity. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory provides regular updates on volcanic eruptions and lava flow patterns, and local emergency management services will issue alerts for evacuations if needed.
Lava zones also play a key role in emergency planning. For example, residents in Lava Zone 1 or 2 may need to have more immediate evacuation plans compared to those living in Zone 7 or 8.
3. Permitting and Development
Lava zones can also influence building permitting and construction on the Big Island. In high-risk zones, certain building codes and regulations may be in place to protect structures from lava damage or other volcanic hazards. Some areas in Lava Zones 1 and 2 may not be suitable for construction, especially if they are in immediate danger of lava flows or are subject to constant volcanic activity.
Local governments and permitting agencies will typically require that homeowners and developers comply with safety guidelines for construction in higher-risk zones. These guidelines may include building homes with fire-resistant materials or designing structures that can withstand potential volcanic hazards.
4. Tourism and Volcano Viewing
For visitors, understanding lava zones can also impact where you choose to go for volcano viewing and other tourist activities. Some of the Big Island’s most popular tourist attractions, like Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, are located in Lava Zones 1 and 2. Tourists can safely explore areas like Kīlauea Crater and Thurston Lava Tube in the park, but it’s always important to follow safety guidelines and heed any warnings from local authorities, especially when volcanic activity is high.
Additionally, some lava tours allow you to witness flowing lava, depending on the eruption's location and intensity. Always check for updates on active lava flows and be sure to follow local guidelines for safety when exploring volcanic sites.
How Lava Zones Affect Your Decision to Move or Visit
If you're planning to move to the Big Island or invest in property, understanding the lava zones is crucial to making an informed decision. For homebuyers or renters, it’s important to consider both the financial implications and the safety risks before choosing a location. For those who are only visiting, knowing the lava zones helps ensure that you plan your activities safely and enjoy the island’s volcanoes without any surprises.
Conclusion
The Big Island’s lava zones are an integral part of its stunning, yet dynamic volcanic landscape. Understanding these zones is key to navigating the island as a resident or visitor. While the risk of volcanic activity is ever-present, it’s important to remember that the beauty and adventure that come with living in or visiting Hawaii’s volcanic regions far outweigh the risks—when you’re well-prepared and informed.
Whether you're exploring the active craters, hiking through lush rainforests, or considering a home purchase on the Big Island, always make sure to check the lava zone information and take the necessary precautions. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy the Big Island's incredible natural beauty while staying safe and informed.
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