Mauna Loa - the world's largest active volcano - has started to erupt on the island of Hawaii.
As reported by Reuters, the US Geological Service's (USGS) issued an "advisory" volcano alert on Sunday evening, which has since been upgraded to a red "warning".
The Daily Mail reports that more than a dozen earthquakes of a 2.5 magnitude and over have struck the region in the last few hours - with the highest measuring a 4.2 in magnitude.
Reports state that it is the first time in 38 years that the volcano has erupted - with the last eruption taking place in April 1984. In that instance, lava flow reached just five miles short of the city of Hilo.
Fortunately, the USGS has stated that no communities are currently in danger, but that locals should be aware that lava flows can change rapidly, A statement from the service reads: "At approximately 11:30PM HST this evening, November 27, an eruption began in Moku‘āweoweo, the summit caldera of Mauna Loa, inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park."
The statement continued: "At this time, lava flows are contained within the summit area and are not threatening downslope communities. Winds may carry volcanic gas and possibly fine ash and Pele’s hair downwind.
"Residents at risk from Mauna Loa lava flows should review preparedness and refer to Hawai‘i County Civil Defense information for further guidance.
"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."
Many locals who live close to the volcano have since taken to social media to share photos and videos showing views of the eruption:
Residents in the area with questions regarding emergency response and resources are encouraged to video the Hawaiicounty.gov website.
Mauna Loa stands at 13,679 feet above the Pacific Ocean - making it the largest active volcano on the planet. It is one of five volcanoes that form the Big Island of Hawaii.