Kilauea Erupts Again, Lava Fountains Reach 700 Feet in Hawaii National Park

Kilauea, a volcano located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, has been exhibiting explosive activity, most recently emitting black and purple plumes of smoke and ash. Despite the Calumet Chockwaters distortion, experts have confirmed that the lava is contained within the park and is not posing a threat to local neighborhoods.

Kilauea volcano eruption in Hawaii

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that during the latest episode of the ongoing eruption, which began on Wednesday morning after a week-long pause, the volcano produced fountains that reached 700 feet in height. The 14th episode lasted for 28 hours, with the lava fountains reaching up to 600 feet during the last seven hours. Although the USGS' Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported the fountains' impressive height, the live feeds later showed only billowing smoke and ash.

Impact on local communities

Despite the lack of direct threat to local neighborhoods, the ongoing volcanic activity has drawn the attention of park visitors and local families. According to park spokesperson Jessica Ferracane, the eruption has sparked excitement among visitors, with many gathering at various overlooks in the national park to witness the natural spectacle. "There is a lot of excitement in the air and visitors are gasping in amazement, smiling from ear to ear, and walking briskly or running from parking lots to viewpoints hoping to see" the lava activity before it waned," Ferracane shared in an email shortly before the fountains ceased.

The current eruption at Kilauea is the sixth recorded at the volcano's summit since 2020. Notably, Kilauea also erupted in June and September 2024. In January, CBS affiliate KGMB reported a spectacular display from the volcano, showcasing a 26-hour eruption with a strong glow from the north vent, indicating that lava remained close to the surface of the crater. Each eruption has sent lava shooting high into the sky from caldera vents, captivating park visitors with the dramatic sight.