Mauna Loa volcanic talk marks 30th anniversary of eruption

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Mauna Loa’s eruptive history and current status are the topics of a free talk by Frank Trusdell, U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist, at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium.

Mauna Loa’s eruptive history and current status are the topics of a free talk by Frank Trusdell, U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist, at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium.

March 25, Tuesday, marks the 30th anniversary of the most recent eruption of Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth. During the 23-day-long eruption, lava flows reached to within 4.5 miles of the Hilo city limits.

Since 1843, Mauna Loa has erupted 33 times — and when it erupts, fast-moving and voluminous lava flows can reach the ocean in a matter of hours, severing roads and utilities, repaving the flanks of the volcano, and building new land.

The talk is part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s After Dark in the Park presentations. Presentations are free; a $2 donation is suggested.

Because the auditorium is within the park, park entrance fees apply.

For more information, email askHVO@usgsg.gov or call 967-8844.