Mauna Loa volcano

Spectacular lava flow threatens major Hawaiian highway

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports the lava river has slowed down but continues to be fed from the erupting volcano.

In its latest update, the USGS reports the lava river is moving at an average of 6metres per hour.

The USGS said the most significant fissure is feeding a lava flow advancing slowly northward toward the Daniel K. Inouye Highway.

The lava flow has reached relatively flat ground causing it to spread out in three directions and slow down significantly over the past several days.