Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, erupted once again on Hawaii's Big Island early on Monday morning, sending cascades of lava and toxic gas soaring high above the island and prompting concerns from officials.
The eruption began at approximately 2:00 AM local time (12:00 GMT), as activity escalated with visible lava fountains and increased seismic events beneath the volcano's summit. Images captured by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory showed jagged fissures opening up within the caldera, erupting jets of molten rock as high as 80 meters (262 feet).
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the lava was observed erupting from the vents on the caldera floor, with activity confined to the summit caldera area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. While there is currently no immediate threat to local residents, officials caution about the potential dangers posed by volcanic smog—commonly known as vog.
“Vog can affect people and animals, as well as crops,” the USGS explained, highlighting concerns over sulfur dioxide emissions from the eruption. They reported the volcanic gas plume reaching elevations of 6,000–8,000 feet and potentially drifting southwest, which could impact inhabited areas.
Ken Hon, head scientist with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, provided important insights during the initial hours of the eruption, saying, "This one came on really fast," reflecting the rapid nature of the volcanic activity.
Officials have advised residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, to stay indoors to minimize exposure to elevated levels of vog expected to settle south and west of the volcano. The observatory warned, “The most immediate threat is from volcanic smog which could reach homes downwind.”
Kilauea has been known for its frequent eruptions, with recorded activity dating back to 1983. Despite coming close to dormancy during certain periods, including between 1924 and 1952, this volcano regularly returns to life, providing both awe and danger for those living nearby.
This latest eruption is not isolated, as Kilauea had previously erupted most recently in September, alongside earlier eruptions this year. The 2018 eruption, which caused widespread destruction, led to the loss of numerous homes and significant alterations to the local geography.
The volcano’s eruptions can vary widely, from days to several months of sustained activity, with the USGS continuously monitoring the situation and issuing updates as necessary.
Despite its destructiveness, Kilauea is classified as a shield volcano, characterized by its broad, gently sloping form rather than the steep peaks formed by more explosive volcanic activity. Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park, encompassing both Kilauea and Mauna Loa—the largest volcano on the planet—attracts visitors eager to witness the majestic power of nature.
Officials of the National Park Service have closed public access to the area surrounding the eruption site since 2007 due to hazards associated with unstable crater walls. They noted, "The lava is coming out at a very rapid rate as it usually does at the onset of these eruptions," adapting to the rapidly changing environment and unpredictable nature of volcanic activity.
Going forward, experts will continue to assess the depth of the eruption's impact on local communities residing within the potential path of the volcanic gases and debris. Ken Hon remarked on the sudden onset of the volcanic activity, explaining the scientific community’s urgency to understand the dynamics of this summer's activity more clearly.
This eruption underlines the need for continuous research and monitoring, as natural phenomena like Kilauea present both beauty and hazards for the residents and ecosystems of Hawaii.
