Understanding rift zones
The rift zones of Kilauea and Mauna Loa are highligted in this map.
Most eruptions originate at the summits and rift zones of Hualalai, Mauna Loa , and Kilauea. Rift zones are areas where the volcano is rifting or splitting apart. The rock in a rift zone has many cracks and is relatively weak, and thus it is easiest for magma to make its way to the surface through these rift zones.
Once at the surface, the lava flows downhill, following local topography. Like water, lava seeks the path of least resistance. Areas downhill of rift zones are more likely to be covered by future lava flows than areas on extinct volcanoes. The U.S. Geological Survey provides lava flow hazard maps.
Lava flows that occurred in the last 200 years, shown in red, indicate the location of the Big Island's rift zones.
If you are planning to buy land on the Big Island, first make sure you understand where it is in relation to the rift zones. Visit the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's Lava Flow Hazard Zones web site.
Videos below discuss the Hazard Zones; they are presented in Quicktime format.
The Hazard Zone Map helps people make informed choices when buying land. View text.
Your community can hold a meeting to learn about the Lava Flow Hazard Zone Map. View text.
If you already live in an area of high volcanic risk, you should be prepared. View text.
Keeping your family safe is the most important. View text.