The U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Geological Survey have issued a joint statement, warning the public about the dramatic developments happening at Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii.

This was prompted by an eruptive explosion on March 19 - a first since 1924. Aside from that, the volcano is also emitting sulfur dioxide at toxic levels. One specific area mentioned was the Halema'uma'u crater.

U.S. Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program Coordinator John Eichelberger had this to say about the recent volcanic activities:

This historic activity has created new hazards that did not exist before - explosive eruptions as well as toxic sulfur dioxide emissions - in the middle of a national park.

Our job is to give emergency responders and the civil defense community the very best information we can provide about what the volcano is doing and what it is likely to do in the future.

Speaking of the national park mentioned by Eichelberger, be informed as well that the National Park Service has closed Crater Rim Drive through the south caldera area until further notice from both departments.

Also, don't forget to keep checking back here at QJ.NET for more updates regarding the Kilauea volcano.