Get Real Chronicles

This section is mainly information to anyone planning a trip to Hawaii. Our group went November 2008 no one knew to research or ask prior to going. Since we were there for a singing competition this wrecked havoc on many of our members causing them to become ill. So if you or a member of your traveling party is sensitive to air pollutants you may want to check the location you are visiting on this website: http://volcano.wr.usgs.gov/

Very simply, Vog is volcanic air pollution. While it is not as ugly as the urban brown low lining clouds found in many cities, it can have a big impact on people who are sensitive to upper respiratory infections. Visitors to the island(s) may not be aware to research this before their visit or might not notice the haze until they develop symptoms of head cold/chest congestion. My suggestion would be when checking weather conditions for your trip time check the Vog report as well. Also check to see if your hotel has a doctor’s office on site in case someone in your party has a severe reaction.

Here is the list of Vog Levels
Extreme - Very reduced visibility, no visible horizon. Blue/grey tint to objects a mile or less in distance.
Heavy - Reduced visibility, horizon barely visible. Blue/grey tint to objects 3 miles away.
Moderate - Horizon is blurry. Blue/grey tint to objects 5 miles away.
Light - Horizon is almost sharp. Blue/grey tint to objects 10 miles away.
No Vog - Sharp horizon and there is little haze when viewing distant objects