SCIENCE

Lava from Hawaii volcano cascades into sea in vivid display

Thursday, August 18, 2016

Lava from Kilauea, an active volcano on Hawaii's Big Island, flows toward the ocean in Volcanoes National Park near Kalapana, Hawaii.

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Lava from Hawaii volcano cascades into sea in vivid displayLava from Kilauea, an active volcano on Hawaii's Big Island, flows toward the ocean in Volcanoes National Park near Kalapana, Hawaii.

AP Photo/Caleb Jones

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, HI -- For the first time in three years, lava from Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island is entering the Pacific Ocean - where it's creating new land and a stunning show for visitors.

Officials at Volcanoes National Park say they have seen an increase of about 1,000 to 1,500 visitors per day since the current lava flow reached the sea in late July, boosting attendance to about 6,000 people daily.

Reaching the flow requires a boat, helicopter or a 10-mile roundtrip hike.

Volcanoes National Park spokeswoman Jessica Ferracane says the hardened lava rock that flanks the access road used to hike to the flow is as sharp as glass, and many people have suffered lacerations while trying to cross the jagged landscape. She says only healthy people should attempt the difficult walk.