Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, is erupting, prompting an ashfall advisory for the Big Island of Hawaii

Related: 65 earthquakes in 24 hours, the shocking figure that Hawaii reached 0:52

(CNN) --

An ashfall advisory went into effect Monday for the Big Island of Hawaii and surrounding waters until 6 a.m. local time (noon Miami time) after Mauna Loa, the active volcano The world's largest volcano will erupt in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Up to 1 cm of ash could accumulate in some parts of the island.

“People with respiratory illnesses should stay indoors to avoid inhaling ash particles and anyone outside should cover their mouth and nose with a mask or cloth,” the National Weather Service in Honolulu warned.

“There is possible damage to crops and animals.

Minor damage to equipment and infrastructure.

Reduced visibility.

Widespread cleaning may be necessary,” she added.

• Dozens of earthquakes are detected as Mauna Loa in Hawaii, the world's largest active volcano, remains in a 'state of great agitation'

The lava flows are contained within the summit area and do not threaten communities on the slopes, the Hawaii Volcano Observatory said.

Winds can carry volcanic gas and fine ash downwind.

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“Based on past events, the early stages of a Mauna Loa eruption can be highly dynamic and the location and advancement of lava flows can change rapidly,” the observatory said, adding: “If the eruption remains on Moku'āweoweo , lava flows are most likely confined within the caldera walls.

"However, if eruptive vents migrate out of their walls, lava flows can move rapidly downslope."

The eruption began at Moku'āweoweo, Mauna Loa's summit caldera, on Sunday around 11:30 p.m. HST (5:30 a.m. EST Monday) according to the observatory.

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