Kilauea Volcano Erupts at 2 a.m. on Hawaii's Big Island, Activity at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater

Dec 23, 2024, 02:57 PM

Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island began erupting early Monday morning, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The eruption started at 2 a.m. local time, with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory elevating Kilauea's volcano alert system to the highest warning levels within a restricted area of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The activity is currently confined to the summit caldera, with lava fountains and flows observed at the base of Halemaʻumaʻu crater. High levels of volcanic gas, including water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, pose significant hazards, potentially creating volcanic smog downwind. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize exposure to volcanic ash and other particles, which can cause skin and eye irritation.