Toxic gasses are spewing from Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island, as new fissures form and thousands are forced to flee.

The Hawaii Fire Department on Saturday reported extremely dangerous air quality conditions due to high levels of sulfur dioxide gas in the evacuation area of Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens. Elderly, young, and people with compromised respiratory systems are especially vulnerable, officials say.

Although no fatalities have been reported, officials say lava spurting into the residential neighborhood has destroyed at least five homes.  

Hawaii County spokeswoman Kanani Aton says two of the eight vents that have formed since Thursday are actively spattering lava. A few others are releasing steam and gas while the oldest of the vents aren't doing anything.

She says the vents are following a pattern of releasing steam and gas, then spattering lava and then releasing steam again before going quiet.

Hawaii County has ordered evacuations for over 1,700 people living in Leilani Estates and neighboring Lanipuna Gardens.