Additional Coverage:
Kilauea Volcano Erupts Again
Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano erupted again Monday evening, marking its seventh eruption since December. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the eruption began around 6:42 p.m. local time.
Initially, the volcano released small, sporadic splatters of lava. This activity intensified throughout the afternoon, culminating in the eruption. Lava fountains reached heights of 100-120 feet.
The USGS estimates the eruption could last 10-20 hours. Lava flow has already covered 15-20% of the crater floor, with additional flow emerging from the cone’s south side.
The eruption is currently contained within a closed area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The USGS is closely monitoring the situation and will issue another update unless significant changes occur.
Volcanic gas is a concern. The eruption is creating vog, or volcanic smog, which contains water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. These gases can spread downwind, posing potential health hazards.
Park officials urge the public to avoid the closed area around the volcano. Hazards include high levels of volcanic gas and strands of volcanic glass.
The USGS has issued an orange warning for the volcano. This indicates an eruption without volcanic ash or escalating unrest with increased eruption potential. Kilauea is one of approximately 170 potentially active volcanoes in the United States.