UPDATE: The Kilauea volcano eruption, which began on December 23, 2024, has paused as of December 15, 2025, but experts warn that the next explosive episode could occur between December 22 and 27. This ongoing volcanic activity presents a rare opportunity for breathtaking lava fountaining, drawing both scientists and visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The eruption features a distinctive style of high lava fountaining, reaching up to 460 meters (1,500 feet), a phenomenon not witnessed in nearly four decades. The recent Episode 38 on December 6 lasted for 12 hours and showcased significant changes in vent activity, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring of volcanic hazards.
The current eruption has dramatically reshaped the landscape. A new 42-meter (140 ft) hill has formed on the northwest rim of the Halema‘uma‘u crater, and the caldera floor has risen by 223 feet (68 meters) due to ongoing lava deposits. However, this dynamic activity is accompanied by serious risks. As lava fountains can change direction and intensity rapidly, the USGS warns that life-threatening hazards exist in areas of the park closed to the public.
“During high fountaining, life-threatening hazards exist within the area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that is closed to the public,”
stated an official from the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). The potential for ash and tephra to spread, particularly during shifts in wind patterns, raises concerns not only for park visitors but also for nearby communities.
Monitoring efforts are ongoing, with HVO staff assessing tephra deposits and ground deformation. They are equipped with real-time technology to document the eruption in detail, predicting future episodes based on seismic activity and ground movement. Geologists and engineers are tirelessly working, even traversing thick tephra deposits, to maintain monitoring stations and ensure safety as they collect vital data.
As of now, intermittent glow has been observed at both vents, indicating that magma is still present and could lead to the next explosive episode soon. The scientific community is on high alert, analyzing the latest data to provide timely forecasts and updates.
Visitors are urged to adhere to all safety guidelines issued by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With the potential for another significant eruption just days away, it’s crucial to stay informed and follow park advisories to ensure safety.
For continuous updates and more detailed information, please visit the USGS HVO website or contact them directly at [email protected]. The next few days could offer a stunning display of nature’s power as Kilauea continues to remind us of its dynamic capabilities.
