HONOLULU, HAWAII — Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, continued to spew lava for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, creating stunning displays of molten rock within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Fortunately, no residential areas were at risk.
Lava Fountains and Flows
The eruption began early Monday morning when fissures opened on the caldera floor, sending molten rock as high as 295 feet (90 meters) into the air. The lava spread across 650 acres (263 hectares) and formed fountains before pausing briefly in the afternoon. By Tuesday morning, the activity had resumed with renewed vigor.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory estimated the lava’s thickness at approximately 1 yard (1 meter) and noted that fluctuations in activity are expected over the coming days.
Public Safety Measures
The eruption occurred in a restricted area of the summit caldera, which has been closed to the public since 2007 due to potential dangers such as unstable crater walls and falling rocks. However, visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park were able to witness the spectacle from a safe distance at designated overlook points.
A History of Activity
This marks the sixth eruption within Kilauea’s summit caldera since 2020. The volcano, renowned for its frequent activity, also erupted in June and September this year. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to the summits of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes.
As scientists continue to monitor Kilauea, its fiery displays offer a reminder of the dynamic geological forces that shape Hawaii’s landscape.
