World's largest active volcano erupts in Hawaii, Experts on high alert

Hawaii: The world's largest active volcano in the summit caldera of Hawaii's Mauna Loa started erupting on Sunday night. The lava flow is currently contained within the summit area. There is no danger to the communities living in the downslope as of now.

However, the alert level was upgraded from an "advisory" to a "warning." Winds may carry volcanic gas and fine ash.

A notification issued by the US Geological Service said the volcano is in its early eruption stages. Based on previous events, it can be very dynamic. The location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly. "If the eruption remains in Moku'āweoweo, lava flows will most likely be confined within the caldera walls. If the eruptive vents migrate outside its walls, lava flows may move rapidly downslope."

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) will be conducting aerial reconnaissance to assess hazards and provide a better description of the eruption.

Mauna Loa is located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and an ashfall advisory is in effect for Big Island and surrounding waters. The National Weather Service in Honolulu has warned of up to a quarter inch of ashfall accumulation on parts of the island.

"People with respiratory illnesses should remain indoors to avoid inhaling the ash particles and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth. Possible harm to crops and animals. Minor equipment and infrastructure damage. Reduced visibility. Widespread clean-up may be necessary," said the statement.

The Hawaiian islands are also likely to see heavy rainfall and slight thunderstorms on Monday. A flood watch has been posted. Moist and unstable conditions are forecasted over the islands.