HILO >> Scientists are studying lava flows in hopes of making such natural phenomena more predictable.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald reports that the three-year study includes Hawaii and mainland scientists who want to better understand how small changes in topography and other variables can alter or stop the molten rock.

University of Hawaii at Manoa volcanologist Bruce Houghton, one of the study’s leaders, says statisticians hope to give residents living downhill of an eruption a better idea of their risk. Houghton says researchers will analyze data from recent and historical lava flows.

Man charged in vehicle thefts

Hawaii island police have charged a Puna man in the theft of two vehicles.

Kealiiokekai Kamanu, 28, of Pahoa was arrested Wednesday after the owner of a 2003 Ford Focus stolen on Aug. 30 from Hawaiian Beaches spotted someone driving it in Orchidland.

Kamanu also faces charges in connection with the Aug. 8 theft of a 2005 Toyota Tacoma that was taken from Aheahe Street in Hilo, and later recovered from Kukuau Street, where Kamanu was spray-painting it, police said. He remains in custody with bail set at $20,000.