Scientists have now changed the alert levels for Mauna Loa in Hawaii, as the volcano is exhibiting unpredictable changes and might erupt after hibernating for 31 years.
Scientists from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) have changed the alert level from "normal" to "advisory" last Thursday.
This decision was made after the occurrence of a series of small earthquakes in the past and changes in the soil and rock formation that could contribute to the increase in magma levels.
Authorities say that changing the alert level does not necessarily mean that volcanic eruption is about to happen; it only serves as a warning that the active volcano may one day erupt and there's no way of knowing when this will be, Starmine News reported.
Volcanic level alerts are categorized by the USGS as "normal," "advisory," "watch," and "warning," the report stated.
Although the alert level for Mauna Loa was set to "advisory," residents are advised to observe precautionary measures since the volcano is considered to be active.
Scientists have yet to provide further details of the direction and trajectory of the eruption, but they are currently keeping a close eye on any major or minor disturbances within the volcano.
In history, Mauna Loa erupts once in every five years and a total of 33 eruptions have been recorded since 1843. With this data, the volcano is already way past the expected major activity.
Meanwhile, in other related news, a Japanese hiker got rescued after losing his way along the Mauna Loa Observatory trail, Hawaii News Now reported.
Rescuers spotted the 40-year-old visitor about 1.5 miles above the observatory. The man got caught in the rain and temperatures that dropped down to the 50s.
Reports stated that the man was then transported to Hilo Medical Center where he was treated for exhaustion and hypothermia.
