Kalapana, Hawaii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kalapana
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One of the more than 100 houses that were destroyed by the lava flow in 1990.
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 Kalapana
Location in Hawaii
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| Country | United States |
| State | Hawaii |
| County | Hawaii |
| Time zone | UTC-10 (Hawaiian (HST)) |
| ZIP code |
96778
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| Area codes | 808 |
Kalapana is a town and a region. It is located in the Puna District on the Island of Hawaiʻi. This island is part of the Hawaiian Islands. The town was once home to the famous Star of the Sea Painted Church.
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Kalapana: A Town Shaped by Lava
Kalapana is a unique place. It has been greatly changed by lava flows from the Kīlauea volcano. Kīlauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Its eruptions have reshaped the land around Kalapana many times.
The 1990 Lava Flow Event
In 1990, a big event happened. Lava from Kīlauea's Kūpaʻianahā vent flowed into Kalapana. This powerful lava flow destroyed most of the town. It also covered nearby areas like Kalapana Gardens. Another town, Kaimū, and its bay were also buried. They now lie under more than 50 feet of hardened lava. This eruption even created a brand new coastline.
Later Lava Flows and Changes
Lava flows continued to impact Kalapana. In July 2010, lava from Kīlauea destroyed another home. This house was only five years old. Still, 35 homes remained in the Kalapana Gardens area. The 2010 lava flow covered some older lava fields. Thousands of visitors came to see the amazing sight.
For many years, lava from Puʻu ʻŌʻō continued to flow. Sometimes, it even reached the sea at Kamokuna.
Recent Volcanic Activity
In May 2018, new lava vents opened. These were in nearby Leilani Estates. This new activity affected access to Kalapana. Roads were restricted to residents only for a while. However, by July 3, 2018, the roads were reopened. All motorists could then visit the area again.
Community Life in Kalapana
Despite the lava, the community in Kalapana is strong. Access to the village was reestablished after the 1990 flow. For a long time, a lively farmers market was held there. It took place every Wednesday night. This market was a popular spot for locals and visitors. Sadly, in May 2018, lava flows impacted nearby roads again. This caused the market to stop for a time.
