Kilauea Volcano Erupts Again, Lava Soars 100 Feet
Kilauea erupts for 31st time since December.
Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active, erupted again on Friday, marking its 31st spectacle since December 2024. The eruption, centered at Halema‘uma‘u crater within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, saw lava fountains soaring up to 100 feet (30 meters), painting the night sky with vibrant red and orange hues. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the north vent began spattering molten rock in the morning, with lava overflowing hours later, contained safely within the summit crater, posing no threat to homes.
The eruption drew thousands to the park, with visitors flocking to witness the awe-inspiring display. Park Service volunteer Janice Wei, a frequent observer, described the scene as “nature’s most extraordinary show,” likening the sound of lava fountains to a roaring jet engine or crashing ocean waves. She noted feeling the intense heat from over a mile away, capturing photos and videos of the event revered in Native Hawaiian tradition as the domain of Pele, the volcano goddess. Hundreds of thousands more tuned into USGS livestreams, accessible via three camera angles, offering a global front-row seat.
Ken Hon, scientist-in-charge at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, explained that a lower magma chamber beneath Halema‘uma‘u is fed at about 5 cubic yards (3.8 cubic meters) per second, inflating like a balloon and forcing magma through narrow vents. This process, likened to a shaken Champagne bottle, drives the episodic fountains, part of a single eruption cycle since December. Historically, Kilauea exhibited similar patterns in 1959, 1969, and 1983, with the latter featuring 44 episodes over three years, though in a less accessible area.
Also Read: Kilauea’s Lava Show Set to Explode Again
Predicting Kilauea’s next move remains challenging. Scientists use sensors to detect earthquakes and ground tilt, forecasting lava emergence within days, but the eruption’s end is uncertain. It could shift to a lower vent, as in 1983, or halt if magma supply dwindles. Steve Lundblad, a University of Hawaii at Hilo geology professor, noted recent fountains are shorter but wider due to less pressurized vents, promising continued dramatic eruptions.
For Native Hawaiians, Kilauea’s lava is a sacred force. Huihui Kanahele-Mossman, executive director of the Edith Kanaka‘ole Foundation, views it as a life-giving resource that forms Hawaii Island’s foundation. Her grandmother’s hula school, Hālau o Kekuhi, weaves Pele’s stories into performances. Kanahele-Mossman visits the crater to offer chants and gifts like awa and fern lei, connecting eruptions to ancient mele (songs) that inspire cultural preservation.
Park visitation has surged 49% this year, driven by the eruption’s allure, with April 2025 seeing a significant spike. Spokesperson Jessica Ferracane warned that episodes often last just 10-12 hours, urging visitors to subscribe to USGS alerts. She emphasized safety, advising adherence to marked trails due to unstable cliffs, cracks, and hazards like volcanic gas, Pele’s hair (volcanic glass strands), and ash. Nighttime visitors need flashlights, and parents must keep young children close to avoid risks.
The ongoing eruption, confined to the summit, has prompted park adjustments, including construction detours and a temporary Welcome Center at Kilauea Military Camp while the Kilauea Visitor Center undergoes renovation until summer 2026. Despite challenges, Kilauea’s fiery displays continue to captivate, blending natural wonder with cultural reverence.
Also Read: Oprah Slammed for Blocking Tsunami Evacuation Route
