One of the most active volcanoes on Earth, Kilauea, erupted once again, sending towering columns of lava more than 1,000 feet into the sky over Hawaii’s Big Island, according to U.S. volcanologists and dramatic footage released on Sunday.
The latest activity marks another episode in a series of intermittent eruptions that have occurred at Kilauea's summit since December 23, 2024. The eruption has primarily centered around Halemaʻumaʻu, a pit crater located within Kilauea's summit caldera.
The U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) confirmed that the eruption began at 4:15 p.m. local time on Sunday (0215 GMT Monday). Initial lava activity emerged from the north vent of Halemaʻumaʻu, with vivid footage capturing jets of molten lava shooting into the air and glowing orange fissures forming across the crater floor.
Roughly an hour after the eruption began, the volcano’s south vent also became active, emitting fountains of lava reaching heights of approximately 230 feet. Meanwhile, lava from the north vent continued to soar to extraordinary heights, surpassing 1,000 feet (about 300 meters).
“Lava flows are covering the floor of Halemaʻumaʻu crater,” the HVO reported. Sunday’s eruption marks the 23rd volcanic event since the December eruption, with each episode typically lasting around a day or less.
The primary hazard currently posed by the eruption is the emission of high levels of volcanic gases, such as sulfur dioxide. When these gases interact with the atmosphere downwind, they can form a dense, visible haze known as "vog"—short for volcanic smog. Vog can pose serious health risks to humans and animals and may also damage crops.
Kilauea has been in an almost constant state of activity since 1983 and is known for its frequent eruptions. Despite being smaller than its neighbouring volcano Mauna Loa—the largest volcano in the world—Kilauea is considerably more active and has become a popular attraction for tourists, especially those who take helicopter tours to witness its spectacular lava displays.
The Hawaiian Islands are home to six active volcanoes, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa, both of which continue to shape the geological landscape of the region.
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