We evacuated from Kapoho when the entire village was demolished by lava flows when I was 18. I have one advice to give: Tourists and those not affected by the flows, please stay out of the area. This is not the time for your cameras and your use of adjectives of how beautiful it is. Please return to your humanity. Stop climbing on people’s rooftops to take photos while the families are evacuating.
When we evacuated in Kapoho, the villagers had this code of honor where we all helped each other. The invaders came from out of Kapoho. This is happening again. Stop, please.
We also listened to the Civil Defense and the National Guards and evacuated in orderly fashion. We didn’t get political. We respected what the authorities told us to do.
( I just spoke to a friend in that area and I was so pleased to hear her say the same words my father had said: “If Pele (fire goddess) wants our house, she can have it.” )
My prayer, Frances, a fervent one, is that those you love who still live in Hawaii are safe. We know that volcanos erupt. There can be nothing to stop them, but yes, what I call “looky loos” have no place where people are losing everything they own. Be safe. May your friends, loved ones and family be safe.
Thank you, Barbara. When it comes to nature, what else can we do but turn into philosophers. Thank you.
I hope people listen to your advice. It could even mean people’s lives when they are trying to flee on overcrowded roads.
Elva, I wish people would listen to the authorities when they’re asked to evacuate. Maybe we were more innocent and obedient but we all evacuated the minute Civil Defense and the National Guard arrived. So there were no jammed roads or unnecessary panic.