Mauna Loa is the largest volcano on Earth located in Hawaii. It formed the Hawaiian Islands along with five other volcanoes. In April 1959, Mauna Loa erupted, destroying several villages and forcing many people from their homes. Rescue workers spent days searching for missing people while thick smoke filled the skies, grounding planes and closing airports until conditions were safe again. One scientist had predicted the disaster and warned residents, who evacuated to safer areas.