Ministry of Health press releases

HILO, HAWAI’I – Following an eruption that began on September 29 from Halema’uma’u crater at the top of Kīlauea volcano on the island of Hawai’i, vog conditions and water levels Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) air is increasing and fluctuating in various parts of the state. All eruptive activities take place in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. However, the changing wind conditions created intermittent air quality issues in areas west of the summit such as Pahala, Nā’ālehu and Ocean View as well as Hilo and East Hawai’i. Poor air quality and increased SO₂ levels can cause respiratory health problems, especially in susceptible people. Conditions change quickly, and poor air quality causing health effects can be very localized.

Hawaii residents and visitors are advised to be prepared and aware of the surrounding conditions and how they feel or may react to vog in the air. In the event of vog conditions, the following precautionary measures are advised:

• Reduce outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing. Avoiding outdoor activities and exercise during vog conditions can reduce exposure and minimize health risks. This is especially important for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory conditions including asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic lung and heart disease.
• Stay inside and close windows and doors. If an air conditioner is used, set it to recirculation.
• If you need to leave an affected area, turn on the car’s air conditioner and set it to recirculate.
• Always keep medications close and within reach.
• Medications prescribed daily for respiratory illnesses should be taken on time and may provide protection against the effects of sulfur dioxide.
• Remember that face covers and masks used to prevent the spread of COVID-19 do not offer protection against SO₂ or vog.
• Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems arise.
• Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Have family emergency plans prepared and ready.
• Heed warnings from county and state emergency management officials.

Visitors to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park should note that rockfall and explosions can produce ash made up of volcanic glass and rock fragments. These ash falls present a minor danger, but ash dust in the areas around the summit of Kīlauea is possible.

The Hawai’i Department of Health (DOH) encourages residents and visitors to use the following resources which provide comprehensive, clear, and current information on the effects of vog on health, how to protect yourself, vog predictions and wind, air quality, changing conditions, and advice for visitors:

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PDF: Kilauea eruption creates potential air quality risks