Lava fountaining returns to Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater

Lava fountaining with in Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater began again this afternoon, marking episode 47 of the ongoing eruption that began on Dec. 23, 2024.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the fountaining began at 3:27 p.m. and was focused at the north vent, with periodic spattering at the south vent within the summit crater.

“The National Weather Service reports that the plume from this eruption is reaching 20,000 feet above sea level,” and HVO advisory said. “Ground-level sensors near the eruptive vents indicate that low-altitude winds are blowing from the northeast direction, which indicates that most volcanic gas emissions and volcanic material will distributed to the southwest of Halemaumau.

But the weather service reports that higher-altitude winds are blowing from the southwest direction above 15,000 feet above sea level, suggesting that light tephra fallout is possible to the northeast of Kilauea summit, HVO said.

NWS warned of possible periods of light ashfall from the eruption.

Low-level trade winds will likely carry the ash toward the southwest or west with ash fallout likely occurring over the Kau and South Kona districts, forecasters said. If a higher plume develops, forecasters say southwesterly winds may disperse the ashfall east or north instead.

“Avoid excessive exposure to ash which is an eye and respiratory irritant. Those with respiratory sensitivities should take extra precaution to minimize exposure,” the NWS statement said.

As with all the previous fountaining episodes, all lava activity is confined to the crater. Most lava fountaining episodes since Dec. 23 have continued for a day or less, scientists said.