A new eruption began at the Kīlauea volcano in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park early Monday morning, pulling in crowds, filling parking lots, and sparking busy roads throughout the park.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the eruption paused just before 11 a.m. on Christmas Day, though eruption activity could change at any time. Throughout these eruptions, hazards like high levels of toxic volcanic gas and fine volcanic particles are present.
Massive plumes of volcanic gas were blown away from the viewing areas towards the southwest, spreading over an area that’s been closed to visitors since 2008. The plume reportedly reached about 6,000 feet above the ground at times, and by 5:30am on Monday, a lava lake had covered nearly 500 acres of the caldera floor. In the southwest corner of the eruption, lava fountains reached about 250 feet high.
The last time the Kilauea summit erupted was back in September of 2003. Read more on preparing for a trip to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park during an eruption below.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Tips and Precautions:
- Expect crowds. Parking will be limited or full at popular areas. Arrive after 9 p.m. and well before sunrise for a better experience. The park is open 24 hours a day, and it is extremely dark after nightfall. Bring a headlamp when visiting during darkness.
- Check the air quality before you arrive and during your visit. People with respiratory or heart issues and pregnant women are especially sensitive to volcanic gas.
- Stay on trail, stay out of closed areas and away from cliff edges and other hazardous terrain. Keep children near you at all times. Stay hydrated.
- Watch out for nēnē. It is breeding season for the rare Hawaiian goose. Nēnē are often encountered in parking lots and seen near roadways. Drive cautiously, never feed them and keep a distance of at least 60 feet (four car lengths).
- Drive safely. The holidays are the busiest season for park visitation, especially during an eruption. Drive the speed limit, heed park rangers and traffic control workers, and stay attentive.
- Check the park website before you arrive. The eruption and other conditions could change at anytime resulting in closures and limited access, or the eruption could end abruptly.
- Enjoy respectfully. Eruptions are powerful events as Pele, the elemental volcanic force, returns to Halemaʻumaʻu crater. Observe eruptions quietly to hear the sounds of lava.