Hawaii’s Kīlauea volcano has destroyed 26 homes and spewed lava hundreds of metres into the air, leaving evacuated residents unsure how long they might be displaced.

In revised figures released on Sunday, officials said another four unspecified structures were covered by lava. The decimated homes were in Leilani Estates, in the island’s eastern Puna district, where molten rock, toxic gas and steam have been bursting through openings in the ground created by the volcano. Some of the 1,700 residents who have been evacuated were allowed briefly to return to their homes to gather medicine, pets and other necessities. Officials say residents would be able to return each day until further notice as authorities monitor which areas are safe.

Amber Makuakane Kane, 37, a teacher and single mother of two, said her three-bedroom house in Leilani Estates was destroyed by lava. The dwelling was situated opposite a fissure that opened on Friday. “There was some steam rising from all parts of the yard, but everything looked fine,” Makuakane said.(theguardian)…[+]