09-16-2014, 04:16 AM
I don't subscribe to the current established lava zones as much as I tend to look at the more imminent existing threats as they emerge. Certainly Kilaeua is the most active volcano in the group but at any time it could go into a hundred year slumber and Mauna Loa erupt.
The origin of the lava zone was never intended to be a guideline but rather intended to be a map of general lava flow ages. As can be seen through the topographical record there is a randomized semi even sweep of the entire terrain. For instance after Pu'u O'o subsides any number of places could open a new vent alleviating current potential target areas. Its very likely that Kapoho may not experience a flow for another 500 years and it certainly isn't likely endangered by Pu'u O'o flows because of its relative topographical location to that of Pu'u O'o.
The origin of the lava zone was never intended to be a guideline but rather intended to be a map of general lava flow ages. As can be seen through the topographical record there is a randomized semi even sweep of the entire terrain. For instance after Pu'u O'o subsides any number of places could open a new vent alleviating current potential target areas. Its very likely that Kapoho may not experience a flow for another 500 years and it certainly isn't likely endangered by Pu'u O'o flows because of its relative topographical location to that of Pu'u O'o.