Hawaii volcano
On Thursday, May 4, 2018, the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island erupted. Since then, the damage has been extensive. It has been reported that 36 structures, including 26 homes, have been destroyed. Families have been forced to evacuate. The current estimated cost to help residents in the next 30 days will likely exceed $2.9 million.
Even if a person’s home isn’t destroyed, there is still the risk of vog, or volcanic smog, that needs to be taken into account. Vog is made up of poisonous gases such as sulfur dioxide that react to oxygen and sunlight. Winds have been pushing vog over the island, creating health risks due to the poor air quality it creates.
This disaster is only getting worse. 18 fissures have opened in all, the most recent opening Monday, May 14. There are warnings from the United States Geological Survey, USGS, that Halemaumau, a crater on top of Kilauea, could also erupt. There are several ways to help the people who have been affected by Kilauea’s eruption.
The Salvation Army is asking for donations for their volcano relief efforts via their website, are promising that 100% of the donations will go to support operations. They are currently providing shelter, hydration and meals.
A food bank group on the Hawaiian Islands called The Food Basket have launched the “Lava Flow Evacuees Aid Fund” for people to donate to. They also promise that all the funds donated will stay on the island to help with disaster relief.
Kolten Wong, a St. Louis Cardinals player and a native to the affected area has started a GoFundMe campaign called “Hawaii Natural Disasters Relief.” The video he posted promises that every dollar donated will go towards helping the people on the island.
The mobile phone company AT&T has reopened their text-to-donate line which donates to the American Red Cross. To donate $10, text REDCROSS to 90999. Alternatively, the American Red Cross Hawaii Chapter is accepting donations as well.
Kilauea’s eruption is going to get worse and continue to destroy homes and create health risks. If it is at all possible, then please donate to aid the people affected by this natural disaster.
11
What is your position on the Bagpipe:
Staffer
What is your go-to snack:
Chips
What is your favorite tv show to binge watch:
The Crown
What are you most excited to get out of Bagpipe this year:
I'm excited about becoming a better writer and getting better at understanding the style of journalistic writing.
In what are you involved at HP:
I am in choir and music theory
What is your dream job:
Reporter
What is your favorite song or style of music:
Classic Rock
What is a fun fact about yourself that not everyone knows:
I rock climb
Where is the coolest place you have visited:
Countryside of England
What is one skill at which you were better:
Singing or public speaking
What is your ideal pet:
Either a basset hound or a dachshund
What is your favorite class this year:
English IIIAP-TAG
Where do you want to go to college:
SMU
What is your favorite news source:
Reuters
What is the best piece of advice you have received so far:
Winter is coming
If you could attend any major event, which would you choose:
A David Bowie concert
