HAWAII: Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupted on Hawaii Island on Monday morning. The eruption began at 2:20 a.m. and sent lava fountains as high as 300 feet, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The eruption has attracted large crowds to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which remains open 24 hours.
Spectacle of Lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
By 5:30 a.m., lava had covered about 500 acres of the caldera floor, the park reported. A large basin, the caldera forms when a volcano erupts and collapses into its own base. The USGS live-streamed the eruption for the public, allowing viewers to watch the bright lava fountains.
Scientific Insight Into the Eruption
Ken Hon, the USGS head scientist, described the eruption as “big and voluminous” in a livestream chat. He explained that it was one of five eruptions in Kilauea ’s summit area since December 2020. Lava flows from previous eruptions had covered a 400-acre lava lake. By 3:00 p.m., volcanic activity had slowed, and by 5:00 p.m., the eruption’s extent covered roughly one square mile.
Impact on Local Communities and Air Quality
While experts confirmed no immediate threat to nearby communities, volcanic gas emissions were spreading downwind. These emissions were reported to have affected air quality in nearby areas. The National Park Service urged people with respiratory or heart conditions to avoid exposure. Visitors to the park have been advised to exercise caution due to the high levels of volcanic gases.