The Truth Behind Kilauea Volcano Coverage: Perspectives from Hawaiian Residents and Visitors
Recent news coverage of the Kilauea volcano eruption has sparked a debate about the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the reporting. Does the news coverage accurately reflect the experiences of Hawaiian residents and visitors, or is there a gap in the stories being told? This article delves into these issues based on the perspectives of people on the ground in Hawaii and those visiting.
Local vs. National Media: A Comparison
The media's response to the Kilauea volcano eruption has been divided. While local media in Hawaii provides detailed and multifaceted coverage, national and international media often focuses on the less human and more spectacular aspects of the eruption.
Local media sources like Hawaii County Civil Defense and United States Geological Survey (USGS) have been instrumental in providing constant updates and essential information. Social media has also become a primary source for the human stories of displacement and struggle, particularly in the affected areas of Puna, Hawaii.
The Inner Struggle: Human Stories vs. Spectacular Visuals
The struggles of the people of Puna, including the displacement of residents and the ongoing concerns about health hazards, are significant and enduring. These stories often take a backseat to the more visually impressive aspects of the eruption, such as the laze and ash plumes.
The media's focus on spectacular visuals to attract attention and revenue is understandable, but it can overshadow the more pressing needs of the community. As a resident, I have been concerned about the sustainability of coverage once the initial spectacle fades.
Comprehensive Local Reporting
Local news outlets such as Hawaii News Now, Big Island Now, and KITV have provided a well-rounded view of the eruption. These news teams have covered the multiple aspects of the story, including the visual spectacle and the concerns of local residents.
For example, Hawaii Tribune Herald and reporter John Burnett have been praised for their multifaceted coverage and attention to the concerns of local individuals, such as the initiation of protective measures and the activities of companies like Puna Geothermal Venture.
National and International Media: Sensationalism vs. Reality
National and international media outlets provide essential coverage but often focus on the dramatic visuals and immediate dangers. Here are some examples of coverage:
ABC News - "Lava reaches ocean in Hawaii creating toxic cloud over island" BBC News - "When your home’s next to a lava flow" CBS News - "Lava from Hawaii volcano oozes into ocean creating new toxic hazard" CNN - "Hawaii lava finally reaches the Pacific -- only to create another deadly danger" FOX News - "Hawaii volcano creates toxic steam clouds as corrosive as diluted battery acid" NBC News - "Hawaii’s Kilauea lava destroys more homes" NPR News - "Hawaii Volcanos Lava Spews Laze Of Toxic Gas And Glass Into The Air"While the threats posed by the eruption are real, the media's focus on sensational terms like "toxic steam clouds" and "deadly dangers" can sometimes minimize the more nuanced issues at play.
Misleading Language and Safety Concerns
The language used in some news articles can be misleading and alarming. For instance, the phrase about the laze being "irrigating" the skin and eyes and causing breathing problems may not be entirely accurate. There is also a misquote suggesting that getting hit by laze might feel like being sprinkled with glitter, which minimizes the serious health risks involved.
As a resident, it is concerning to see such terminology being used. The risks associated with laze, including potential burns and respiratory issues, need to be communicated more accurately and comprehensively.
Conclusion: A Call for Balanced Reporting
The Kilauea volcano eruption has brought to light the need for balanced and comprehensive media coverage. While the visual spectacle is important, the human stories of displacement and ongoing struggles must also be a central focus. Residents and visitors alike deserve accurate and sensitive reporting that helps everyone fully understand the situation and its long-term implications.