Hawaii’s volcanic eruption has destroyed at least 26 homes, officials say

Lava erupting from Hawaii’s powerful Kilauea volcano has now destroyed at least 26 homes, more than double the previous figure, officials announced Sunday, citing grim findings from an aerial survey by the fire department.

Scientists reported lava spewing more than 200 feet into the air. More than 1,700 people have evacuated, and some said they may have to stay away from their homes for a long time. There was no initial word of anybody injured.

Earlier in the day, officials had said the lava destroyed nine homes.

Big Island civil defense officials also said Sunday that two new fissures, or vents where lava has broken through the ground, have emerged in the Leilani Estates subdivision.

“There’s more magma in the system to be erupted. As long as that supply is there, the eruption will continue,” U.S. Geological Survey volcanologist Wendy Stovall said.

As many as 10 fissures have opened up since the eruption started late Thursday afternoon, scientists said, adding that one of those vents has gone dormant.

Among the people whose homes were destroyed: an elementary school teacher and single mother of two. The woman, Amber Makuakane, told The Associated Press her three-bedroom house was right across from a fissure that had opened Friday. She says there was some steam rising from all parts of the yard initially but everything looked fine.

VOLCANIC LAVA DESTROYS HOME BELONGING TO SINGLE MOTHER OF 2

She also said she knew the volcano’s risks, but wanted to stay close to her family. Her children’s ages are 6 and 4.

A fellow teacher started a fundraising page to help Makuakane and her family rebuild.

Some people who evacuated will be allowed to return to pick up pets, medicine and vital documents, officials said.