Hawaii's Mauna Loa began erupting on Nov. 27 for the first time in nearly four decades. Here are some facts about the volcano:
* The eruption began on Sunday Nov. 27 at about 11.30 p.m. local time,, ending the longest period of quiet in the volcano's recorded history. It previously erupted in March and April of 1984.
* Mauna Loa is the largest active volcano on the planet, rising some 13,679 feet above the Pacific Ocean and dominating the Island of Hawai'i, also known as the Big Island. * In the last eruption in 1984, lava crept within five miles of Hilo, the largest settlement on the island, home to about 40,000 people.
* Worldwide, there are about 1,350 volcanoes with the potential to be active, of which 500 have erupted in recorded history, the USGS says. The eight Hawaiian islands are home to 15 volcanoes.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Satellites watch Mauna Loa, world's largest active volcano, erupt in Hawaii (photos)The eruption turned the sky red throughout the Hawaiian islands.
Read more »
Hawaii authorities issue alert as giant volcano Mauna Loa wakes up after 38 yearsMauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, began erupting on Sunday night and sending lava toward a northeast rift.
Read more »
World's largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, erupts in Hawaii; moves to northeast rift zoneMauna Loa's eruption has moved to the volcano's northeast rift zone, authorities said. Lava flows are not threatening nearby communities at this time.
Read more »
Mauna Loa eruption: Hawaii Big Island volcano erupting as ash fall warnings issuedMauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano located in Hawaii, began erupting late Sunday night, prompting officials to issue a warning to residents who live in the surrounding area of possible lava flow.
Read more »