Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano: Lava Threatens Power Plant (Photos)

PAHOA, HI — There has been another "explosive eruption" at Hawaii's Kilauea summit and lava is now approaching the edge of a power plant on the Big Island. The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency said in a Facebook post that there was an explosive eruption reported around 3:45 a.m. Tuesday and a resulting ash plume threatened nearby communities.

"The wind may carry the ash plume to the southwest toward Wood Valley, Pahala, Naalehu and Waiohinu," the agency said.

The agency warned residents of ash "fallout" and said people should remain indoors with the windows closed.

"Turn on your radio and listen for updates from authorities," the agency added.

The agency also warned drivers to beware of poor driving conditions.

"If you are in your car, keep the windows closed," the post said. "Ash fallout may cause poor driving conditions, due to limited visibility and slippery driving conditions. Drive with extreme caution, or pull over and park."

Lava spewing out of a fissure, or vent, is now coming dangerously close to the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, the agency said in a Tweet late Monday. Dramatic photos show lava inching toward the edge of the plant's property.

Thomas Travis, an administrator of the state Emergency Management Agency, told USA Today that most of the vents have been capped with a steel plate. But intense heat could weaken the metal.

“That’s why having lava flow across the well causes some uncertainties that have to be dealt with," he told the outlet. "To our knowledge, no one has faced this before."

The plant was closed and thousands of gallons of flammable gas stored have been moved from the facility, the outlet said.

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Other photos show lava flowing toward the Pacific Ocean. Officials are warning of the dangers of "laze," which forms when 2,000-degree lava hits the ocean. A steam cloud consisting of hydrochloric acid shoots into the air, as well as tiny glass particles.

USA Today reported, citing scientists, that the acid in the cloud is roughly as a corrosive as a diluted battery and can irritate skin, eyes and lungs. It's particularly harmful for those with asthma and emphysema.

Photos credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images