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Posted: Monday, January 4th, 2010 4:36 AM HST

Big Island marks Volcano Awareness Month

By Associated Press

VOLCANO, Hawaii (AP) — January is Volcano Awareness Month on the Big Island. Throughout the month, the U.S. Geological Survey says its Hawaiian Volcano Observatory will sponsor events to promote the importance of understanding a respecting the volcanoes that form the island. The events are being held in cooperation with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii County Civil Defense and the University of Hawaii-Hilo. Scientists say Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, has been in constant eruption since Jan. 3, 1983. Over the past 27 years, lava spewing from the volcano has destroyed about 200 homes and other structures, including nearly 70 in the Royal Gardens subdivision. (Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved)