The public can now get up-to-date information on sulfur dioxide levels in areas on the island of Hawai'i most affected by vog and volcanic emissions from a new Web site provided by the state Health Department.

The Web site at www.hiso2index.info provides information on sulfur dioxide levels in the Pahala, Hilo, Mountain View, Puna, and Kona areas and in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

In addition to using the new state Web site for information on vog and volcanic emissions, the public can call the Vog Helpline, toll-free, at 866-767-5044.

Sulfur dioxide is an irritant gas emitted by the Kilauea volcano. In recent months, temporary spikes have been observed in the districts of Ka'u and Puna. People with asthma or other chronic lung conditions who are physically active outdoors during these temporary spikes are most likely to experience the irritant health effects of sulfur dioxide.

The state collaborated with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , the County of Hawai'i, National Park Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center to develop a color-coded system to make it easier for people to understand quickly whether sulfur dioxide is reaching unhealthy levels in their communities.

The sulfur dioxide levels are measured by state air monitors and are based on 15-minute averages. Six colors cover sulfur dioxide levels. The six colors correspond to a different level of health concern ranging from "good" to "hazardous."

The color-coded system will replace the existing system used by the County of Hawai'i.

"The new Web site displaying current color-coded sulfur dioxide monitoring levels will help people learn how sulfur dioxide may affect them and how they can protect their health," said Laurence Lau, deputy director for environmental health.

Because folks may be affected differently, the state recommends that people rely on how they personally respond to sulfur dioxide rather than depending only on the ambient air monitors to make health decisions.

The sulfur dioxide effect on communities varies widely, depending largely on wind and weather conditions.