Coast Guard creates 300 meter safety zone near lava
On Tuesday, it began enforcing a “temporary safety zone” that requires vessels to stay at least 300 meters (984 feet) from the ocean entry through Sept. 28.
The Coast Guard cites hazards such as the unstable sea cliff, volcanic shrapnel and toxic gases as reasons for the restriction, which could become permanent.
“According to the (Hawaiian Volcano Observatory), large and dense fragments ejected during delta collapses can be thrown in all directions from the point of collapse, including out to sea,” the Coast Guard said in a press release.
Shane Tarpin of Lava Ocean Tours said he sees the safety zone as unnecessary and that it will hurt his business.
Read more: http://www.westhawaiitoday.com/news/local-news/coast-guard-creates-300-meter-safety-zone-near-lava