World • 3h ago
3/20: CBS Evening News
**Emergency Evacuations Ordered in Hawaii Amidst Lava Flow**
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted on May 3, 1983, and again on December 20, 2020, prompting emergency evacuations in the area. On December 20, 2020, the United States Geological Survey reported a significant increase in volcanic activity at Kilauea. The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency ordered the mandatory evacuation of approximately 1,700 residents from the Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens subdivisions due to the increased volcanic activity.
The residents were forced to leave their homes as lava flows from Kilauea's East Rift Zone began to approach the area. According to the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency, the lava flows were moving at a rate of approximately 200 to 300 yards per hour. The residents were given a 24-hour notice to evacuate before the mandatory evacuation order went into effect.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, travelers at major airports were facing significant delays due to security screening issues. At New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, for example, travelers reported waiting in TSA lines for up to three hours. The delays were attributed to a combination of factors, including increased passenger volume and staffing shortages.
"It's like a free vacation, but not really," said *one traveler at JFK Airport*, who wished to remain anonymous. "I'm just glad I'm not missing my flight. I'm a little worried about making it to my gate on time, but I'm trying to stay positive." The delays were not limited to JFK Airport, with similar reports coming from other major airports across the country.
The security screening issues were not the only challenge facing travelers. Inclement weather, including snowstorms and freezing temperatures, was also causing disruptions at airports across the country. At Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, for example, flights were delayed due to snow and freezing rain. The weather conditions were causing significant disruptions to air travel, with over 1,000 flights delayed or canceled on December 20, 2020.
As the situation in Hawaii and at airports across the country continues to unfold, residents and travelers are advised to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities. The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency will continue to provide updates on the situation in Hawaii, while the Transportation Security Administration and airport authorities will work to minimize the disruptions caused by security screening issues and inclement weather.