Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupted early on Monday morning on Hawaii’s Big Island following a series of earthquakes beneath its summit, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The eruption began at approximately 2:30 AM local time (7:30 AM ET) within the Halemaʻumaʻu crater, part of the vast Kilauea caldera, located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Webcam footage captured by observers showed lava flowing and fissures emitting spectacular lava fountains at the base of the crater. Park officials noted the eruption could draw immense attention as tourists flock to witness the volcanic activity, which draws visitors year-round to one of Hawaii's most popular national parks. The park itself is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers the summits of both Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two powerful natural forces.
Following the eruption, the USGS elevated the volcano alert from advisory to warning, indicating the risk of hazardous eruptions was imminent or already occurring. The agency also issued a red aviation color code, signaling significant volcanic ash emissions could disrupt air travel across the region.
Seismic activity beneath Kilauea's summit intensified noticeably shortly before the eruption, with tremors commencing around 2 AM local time. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported they would maintain vigilant monitoring of the situation and issue updates as necessary. Despite the eruption, the national park has not yet outlined any specific guidelines for visitors.
This latest outburst marks the third eruption for Kilauea this year; previous significant volcanic activity occurred during the months of June and September. The eruption is projected to have minimal immediate impact on travel, with flights to Kona International Airport remaining unaffected at this time. There have been no reported cancellations or delays following the onset of activity.
Earlier eruptions from Kilauea have caused severe destruction, most infamously during 2018 when eruptions lasted three months, displacing thousands and destroying over 700 structures. Such historic events cast light on the potential dangers associated with living near active volcanoes.
Currently, the USGS has downgraded its alert level from WARNING to WATCH and aviation color code from RED to ORANGE as the eruption seems to have stabilized within the crater. Hazard assessments indicate high levels of volcanic gas could affect air quality downwind of the summit. This plume of toxic gas is sent soaring to altitudes of around 6,000 to 8,000 feet, veering southwest over the closed area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
At one point during the early hours of the eruption, lava fountains were observed reaching heights of up to 80 meters, equivalent to about 262 feet. Observers noted molten material, referred to as lava bombs, ejected from the crater vents onto the caldera rim, yet officials reiterated caution as high levels of volcanic gas represent a serious threat.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s mission includes assessing hazards and advancing the scientific community’s knowledge of volcanic behavior, as well as reducing impacts on residents and tourists. Understanding the nuances of different alarm levels provides the public with greater insight on the volcano's state, which ranges from normal, advisory, watch, to warning. When the volcano is quiet, it is considered normal; elevated unrest is marked as advisory or watch depending on the seriousness of the activity.
This eruption of Kilauea falls within the historical account of volcanic activity on the Big Island, which has seen regular upheavals throughout the 210,000 to 280,000 years past. Eruptions can be both spectacular and dangerous, drawing fascination from scientists and visitors worldwide. Kilauea itself stands as one of the most studied volcanoes globally due to its accessibility and continuous activity.
For now, as the volcanic activity continues, the public is advised to stay informed through official channels, ensuring safety as they enjoy witnessing one of nature’s most potent displays.
The Kilauea volcano offers both awe and peril, making it imperative for visitors to be aware of their surroundings as the elements of depth and beauty come hand-in-hand with geological unpredictability.
