Locals warned as Hawaii volcano sends fresh ash cloud into air

An eruption at the summit of a volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island has sent an ash cloud about 10,000 feet into the air, authorities have said.

Those living in communities south-west of the Kilauea volcano have been warned that wind could carry ash their way after the eruption on Thursday night.

Lava also is spewing from fissures in the Leilani Estates region, which has been evacuated for three weeks.

About 2,000 people have fled their homes.

Officials say nearly 50 structures, including dozens of houses, have been destroyed since fissures began opening up on May 3.