Lava fountaining returns to Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater

Lava fountaining returned to Kilauea volcano’s Halemaumau crater this afternoon for the 53rd time since the ongoing eruption began on Dec. 23, 2024.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists said episode 53 fountaining began at 3:45 p.m. from the north vent, quickly reaching about 100 feet in height.

As with the previous 52 fountaining events of the current eruption, all lava activity was confined to the summit crater within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, officials said.

Winds were blowing from the northeast this afternoon, which suggests that volcanic gas emissions and volcanic material may be distributed southwest of Halemaumau, scientists said. The volcanic gas plume was about 6,000 feet above ground level, they said.

Tephra (small glassy volcanic fragments), volcanic ash, pumice, and Pele’s hair from volcanic ash clouds is greatest within 3 miles of the vents.

Vog, or volcanic air pollution, will be present downwind and may cause respiratory or other problems. Further information on vog can be found at vog.ivhhn.org.

In a “special weather statement,” the National Weather Service said today, “Fountaining episodes typically last less than 12 hours but ash can remain in the air longer depending on wind and weather.”

“If you live downwind of the Kilauea summit, or plan to visit the summit area, stay informed about current volcanic activity and weather conditions. Be prepared to take precautions if needed, such as disconnecting water catchment systems,” the statement said, “Avoid excessive exposure to ash which is an eye and respiratory irritant. Those with respiratory sensitivities should take extra precaution to minimize exposure.”

The current volcano alert level is “watch” and the aviation color code is orange.