Hawaii’s Mauna Loa, which is the world’s largest active volcano, erupted for the first time in four decades on Sunday, November 28. The volcano’s alert level has been upgraded from an “advisory” to a “warning”, which is the highest level in terms of severity.

“Lava flows are contained within the summit area and are not threatening downslope communities,” officials said. The US Geological Service (USGS) has, however, warned the situation could change rapidly and residents have been told to remain vigilant.

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Videos poured in on social media as the night sky in various parts of Hawaii lit up in a blood-red hue. Take a look at some of the spectacular videos and photos capturing this rare sight:

Mauna Loa sent lava flows within 5 miles of the city of Hilo. The latest eruption began at Moku’āweoweo, the volcano’s summit.

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After a spate of recent earthquakes in the region, geologists issued a series of warnings that an eruption was possible. Over a dozen tremors occurred in the region that measured at more than 2.5 magnitudes on Sunday. “Based on past events, the early stages of a Mauna Loa eruption can be very dynamic and the location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly,” the USGS said.

Some residents of the South Kona coast have begun to voluntarily evacuate, though no evacuation orders are in place yet.

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The National Weather Service issued a statement that said: “Winds may carry volcanic gas and possibly fine ash and Pele’s hair downwind. Residents at risk from Mauna Loa lava flows should review preparedness and refer to Hawai‘i County Civil Defense information for further guidance.”

It added: “Based on past events, the early stages of a Mauna Loa eruption can be very dynamic and the location and advance of lava flows can change rapidly.”