Lava flows from Mauna Loa; first time in 40 years

Lava is shooting into the air and flowing downhill as Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano erupts for the first time in nearly 40 years.For now, lava is not threatening any homes or communities and no evacuation orders have been issued.

Lava could eventually reach neighborhoods on the eastern side of the Big Island though it could take a week or more for molten rock to reach populated areas.Mauna Loa is spewing sulfur dioxide and other volcanic gases which combine with other particles to form volcanic smog. State health officials are urging people to cut back on outdoor exercise and other activities that cause heavy breathing.