Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, has initiated its fifth eruptive episode since December 2024, marking another significant moment for observers and residents alike. The latest eruption commenced on January 22, 2025, at approximately 2:57 p.m. local time, producing small spatter fountains of lava visible within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), this eruption signifies the start of a new phase of activity. It features small lava dome fountains at the north vent, which are channeling short lava flows toward the southwestern part of the caldera. Notably, volcanic gas emissions during this phase are considerably heightened compared to the previous pauses. The USGS has been closely monitoring Kilauea’s activity since December 23, 2024. Each episode of lava fountaining has varied significantly, lasting anywhere from 14 hours to eight days, interspersed with short pauses of less than 24 hours to as long as 12 days.
The prior eruption episode had begun on January 15 but experienced pauses over the weekend of January 18. The USGS also warns of major hazards expected during this eruption, which includes wall instability, ground cracking, and rockfalls. Earthquakes may exacerbate these risks, prompting warnings for visitors who venture too close to the volcano. Since 2007, the region around Halemaʻumaʻu crater has been closed to the public due to concerns about its hazardous nature.
With approximately 170 potentially active volcanoes scattered across the United States, the role of the USGS is pivotal for monitoring volcanic activity. They are committed to keeping the public informed about Kilauea’s developments as they occur.
On the international front, Mount Ibu, located on Indonesia's Halmahera Island, has erupted over 1,079 times since January 1, 2025. This data from Indonesia's Geological Agency was made public amid fresh evacuation warnings necessitated by the volcano's recent activity. On Sunday, the latest eruption resulted in ash columns reaching as high as 1.5 kilometers, with some eruptions even reaching 4 kilometers, prompting officials to evacuate approximately 3,000 residents from six nearby villages.
Despite the impending danger, only 517 residents have actually evacuated—many have chosen to remain due to harvesting crops and their familiarity with the volcano's frequent eruptions. “There might be economic reasons, as many residents are harvesting crops. We will continue to educate the community...” explained Adietya Yuni Nurtono, the military commander overseeing relief efforts. This highlights the delicate balance between immediate safety and the economic realities of the local population.
Authorities have placed residents and tourists on alert, advising them to avoid the five- to six-kilometer exclusion zone around Mount Ibu's peak and to wear face masks to shield against falling ash. Reports indicate 17 eruptions recorded on Sunday, with ash plumes measured between 300 meters to 4 kilometers above the volcano, accompanied by loud rumbling noises.
Mount Ibu, categorized as a stratovolcano renowned for explosive activity, has been erupting sporadically since 1998, but its current activity has reached unprecedented intensity, with eruptions occurring daily. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, boasts over 120 active volcanoes, positioning it as one of the most seismically active regions globally.
Recent tragic events have underscored this danger. For example, last November, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores erupted repeatedly, leading to nine fatalities from its initial explosion. Another case was last year's eruption of Mount Ruang, which required massive evacuations from nearby islands due to the threat posed to residents.
The increasing frequency of eruptions at both Kilauea and Mount Ibu serves as poignant reminders of nature's power and unpredictability. With geological agencies working tirelessly to monitor these volatile environments, the safety of nearby populations relies heavily on effective communication and preparedness to face possible crises. Regular updates and guidelines from geologists will be integral as these volcanic activities continue to evolve.