People in Hawaii are taking their selfie game at a whole new level by "Instagramming" at Kīlauea volcano's summit on Big Island.
Social media fanatics are taking selfies near the gushing river of fast-moving lava while waiting for the major eruption. Police in the area has already issued precautions to keep the people safe.
The volcano on the island of Hawaii has been releasing lava since its eruption on May 3 and has destroyed countless homes. Thousands of residents have also evacuated the East Rift Zone of the Big Island.
The flowing lava river travels at a whopping speed of more than 200 yards per hour and now connects the nine-mile distance of the lower-east fissures and the ocean. The lava poses a threat to humans not only because of its temperature but also because of the chemicals in its composition which can create an explosive and toxic reaction upon contact with chemicals in air and water.
Furthermore, the eruption has caused an abrasive volcanic glass phenomenon called Pele's Hair which can scratch concrete surfaces and is hazardous when inhaled.
However, the danger is not enough to stop people from taking its picture to upload of their social media.
Prohibited Area
Alan Richmond, spokesman for the Hawaii Police Department said that it's a frustrating scenario.
Richmond said that aside from over a hundred National Guards on the area for security purposes, authorities have also set up roadblocks near the volcano.
He added that they have also released alerts to remind the people that the area is supposed to be off-limits.
Furthermore, Richmond added that some residents who were allowed to go back to their homes during the day might have handed their placards to those who want to witness the flowing lava up close.
The spokesman has reminded them through an interview with People that the fissures are very deadly. As a matter of fact, they are currently under condition red because of the increased ash area.
Although there are still no injuries in the area, nobody knows how long it will stay that way.
Lava Chaser
Self-proclaimed "lava chaser" Demian Barrios filmed Hawaii's Puna district, where a new fissure opened up. Barrios has been tracking every open fissure of the volcano for 11 days before he finally caught the 17th fissure.
Also a professional photographer, Barrios live streamed the action from the ground which showed huge "lava bombs" dropping on the ground around him that are half the size of a Volkswagen beetle car.
The 37-year old said that lava chasing is almost addictive and it makes him feel alive. He also said that there is a strong sense of love, respect, and power that he gets from standing there and being able to see it.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
