Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano erupts after nearly four decades

The Mauna Loa volcano in the U.S. state of Hawaii, the world's largest active volcano, is erupting for the first time in nearly 40 years, authorities said.

The eruption began at 11:30 p.m. local time Sunday, according to the U.S. National Park Service. It was the first eruption since 1984.

The eruption continues at the summit of Mauna Loa. All vents remain restricted to the summit area. There is currently no indication of any migration of the eruption into a rift zone, according to the latest update of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Lava flows in the summit region are visible from Kona, said the update.

At this time, lava flows are contained within the summit area and are not threatening downslope communities, according to the observatory.

Residents at risk from Mauna Loa lava flows should review preparedness and refer to Hawaii County Civil Defense information for further guidance, said the U.S. Geological Survey.

"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 agency warned.