Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, has erupted once more, spewing lava up to 80 meters into the air, according to U.S. volcanologists.
Massive fissures have opened in the caldera of the volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island, releasing volcanic gases and ejecting molten material intermittently.
“The molten material, including lava bombs, is being ejected from vents on the caldera floor, reaching as far as its western edge,” reported the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Recent eruptions have propelled volcanic matter higher into the atmosphere than in the past.
“A plume of volcanic gas and fine ash is rising to altitudes of 2,000 to 2,600 meters and being carried southwest by prevailing winds,” the USGS added.
The activity is occurring in a restricted area within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with lava flows currently contained within Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and the eastern section of Kilauea’s caldera. As a result, no inhabited areas are at risk.
Kilauea erupts frequently, with its last eruption occurring in September. Hawaii is home to six active volcanoes, including Mauna Loa, the largest in the world. Although Kilauea is much smaller, it is significantly more active, consistently captivating tourists eager to witness its fiery displays—many even observing it by helicopter.
