Air Quality Information for Hawaii Residents and Visitors
The Hawaii Department of Health reports that vog conditions may increase and fluctuate in various areas of the state as volcanic activity on Hawaii Island continues. Vog is a hazy mixture of sulfur dioxide gas (SO2) and fine particles (PM2.5) emitted from an erupting volcano.
If you are a Hawaii resident or visitor, stay tuned to and follow directions provided by Hawaii County public officials and emergency personnel.
Here are several resources for learning about Hawaii air quality conditions:
- Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard provides comprehensive information on vog and SO2: https://www.ivhhn.org/vog/
- Hawaii Short Term SO2 Advisory: http://www.hiso2index.info/
- Hawaii Ambient Air Quality Data: https://health.hawaii.gov/cab/hawaii-ambient-air-quality-data/
- VMAP Vog Measurement and Prediction Project: http://mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/vmap/hysplit
- AirNow shares information from real time PM2.5 monitors in Hawaii: https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=Hawaii
The Department of Health has advised residents and visitors to be prepared and aware of the surrounding conditions, and how they feel or may react to vog in the air.
Here are some precautionary measures to take in the event of vog conditions:
- Reduce outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing. Avoiding outdoor activity and exercise during vog conditions can reduce exposure and minimize health risks. This is especially important for sensitive groups such as children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or heart disease.
- Stay indoors and close windows and doors. If an air conditioner is used, set it to recirculate.
- Always keep medications on hand and readily available. Daily prescribed medications should be taken on schedule. People with asthma should follow their asthma action plans.
- Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems develop.
- Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
- Have family emergency plans prepared and ready.