Hawaiian village Pahoa evacuates as Kilauea lava threatens

Residents of a Hawaiian village threatened by the Kilauea volcano have begun evacuating as the lava threatens the first houses in its way, the BBC reported.

At least 50 buildings are in its path and the lava is less than 100 yards (90 metres) from a two-storey house.

"We are still praying," said Imelda Raras, one of the residents at risk. "I hope our home will be spared."

Kilauea on the Big Island has been erupting since 1983, but lava has recently burst forth from a new vent.

Two roads to Pahoa have been closed and a cemetery has already been overtaken by the lava.

The town's residents will be allowed to watch the destruction of their homes "as a means of closure," officials said.

And they will be allowed to take photos and video for insurance purposes.

"You can only imagine the frustration as well as... despair they're going through," said Hawaii County Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveira.

Mrs Raras said she and her husband are ready to go to a friend's home if they are ordered to leave.

On Tuesday morning, officials said the lava had crossed into the property of the threatened home on the edge of Pahoa.

Many residents of the town of 800 have already left or made plans to do so, Mr Oliveira said.