Verizon Wirless Now Covers Volcano

June 22, 2008 06:33 PM

Seeing lava up close at Kilauea can be an incredible experience, but it can also be dangerous if something goes wrong and you have no phone service. That's why Verizon Wireless has installed a cell on wheels or the cow in Kalapana. The cow provides cell phone coverage to the area as well as capacity for emergency crews. Everyday more than a thousand people hike out to watch the lava flow and that prompted one Pahoa resident to write to her lawmakers. "Hikers who go out to see the new lava flow and not having any cell phone communication I was worried people were going to get in trouble and get lost and needed to talk to get help," said Bettie Van Overbeke. A traditional Hawaiian blessing was held recently. Only verizon customers can use their service.

Last Updated ( June 22, 2008 06:33 PM )