World's largest active volcano erupts on Hawaii's Big Island

Mauna Loa, the world's largest active volcano, began erupting in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, causing an ashfall advisory in the state's Big Island.

The eruption began late Sunday evening local time, and lava flows as of Monday morning are not threatening people living downslope, according to the U.S. Interior Department.

However, winds may carry volcanic gas and possibly fine ash and Pele’s hair downwind, the agency said.

Pele's hair is fine glass fibers from the volcano. 

Officials said the volcano will likely be confined, but the situation could "change rapidly."

The volcano is the largest active one in the world, CNN reported.

A quarter of an inch of ash could fall on parts of the island, and the National Weather Service in Honolulu is warning people with respiratory illnesses to stay inside. Anyone outside is advised to cover their mouth and nose with a cloth.