Lava flow in Hawaii barely missed a cemetery plot, leaving a headstone standing among black lava, as seen in a photo taken Oct. 28 by a scientist documenting the lava flow.
The headstone belongs to a family plot in Pahoa Japanese Cemetery
tended by Aiko Sato, The Associated Press reported.
"I feel like it's a miracle," Sato, 63, told the AP. "I know subsequent breakouts could cover the grave, but at least I know it survived like a first round."
The lava, which has been flowing since June, stalled on Oct. 30 about 480 feet from major thoroughfare Pahoa Villlage Road.
While the leading edge has stalled, the lava continues to spread horizontally and could again
push lava toward homes, The Weather Channel said.
President Barack Obama declared the lava flow a disaster on Monday, authorizing federal aid in relief efforts.
The lava flow reached Pahoa about a week ago and has destroyed two structures:
a potting utility shed and a cattle shelter, the Star-Advertiser reported.
All polls in the area were open on Election Day, Chief Election Officer Scott Nago told the Star-Advertiser.
Twitter users commented about the lava flow.
Related Stories: