latest lava flow at Kilauea Volcano "extremely dangerous"

HONOLULU -- State land officials consider the latest lava flow at Kilauea Volcano as "extremely dangerous."

Officials said that everyone should stay away from the area until further notice.

The shift in volcanic activity on Wednesday around the Pu'u O'o Crater is forcing the closure of the Kahauale'a Natural Reserve.

There are also many new land cracks. Such cracks have previously injured or killed people who have fallen into them, according to officials with the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

They also warned the public of "dangerous ponding" in the area where lava can suddenly move perpendicularly from the flow. It has happened three times, according to officials.

Toxic fumes pose a health hazard to people who go into the area, officials said.

DLNR closed the Captain's Trail, also known as Pu'u O'o Trail.

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