During Kona winds, or in the absence of strong trade wind conditions, however, vog stays on the east side of the island, affecting people, animals and plants, sometimes from Ka Lae to Hilo. Gas release of another form occurs where lava enters the ocean. Again, a chemical reaction occurs, this time between molten lava and sea water. The reaction is vigorous because of the intense heat, generating a large, white plume cloud containing a mixture of hydrochloric acid and sea water, commonly called laze. This rain is often more acidic than lemon juice, with a pH of 1.5 to 2.5, but is more corrosive than lemon juice to skin and clothing.
Hydrochloric acid is toxic and causes irritation to the throat, lungs, eyes, and nose.
Visitors should heed park warning signs and avoid standing directly in or under the coastal- entry plume.