Lava flow approaches populated area, evacuations possible

Residents of Hawaii County are preparing for possible evacuation as a lava flow approaches populated areas.

The County released a notice on Sunday, as the lava approached the outskirts of the town of Pohoa (PUH-HO-UH), home to about 800 people.

While the lava can damage property, the smoke from burning vegetation can also cause breathing problems, *especially* for people with chronic conditions.

Authorities went door to door, warning residents they may have to pack up in coming days.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) PAHOA RESIDENT, ILYN NARCISO SAYING:

"You pack and you got to get out. When you get the notice of anywhere from three to five days it's the real thing."

The county says the lava flow is moving at a rate of about 15 to 20 yards an hour.

If that does not change, about 4,000 people overall could be affected by the evacuations.