Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, is poised to erupt for the 31st time since December, promising a breathtaking display of molten rock and glowing skies. Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory predict that lava will soon gush from Halemaumau Crater, captivating onlookers at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and millions more via USGS livestreams.

The volcano, located on Hawaii Island, 320 kilometers south of Honolulu, has been a spectacle of nature’s power, with lava fountains soaring up to 300 meters. “It’s like a front-row seat to Earth’s raw energy,” said park volunteer Janice Wei, who captures the eruptions’ roar and heat from over a mile away. The fiery show, likened to a jet engine or crashing waves, reflects the vibrant spirit of Pele, the Native Hawaiian volcano goddess.

Ken Hon, scientist-in-charge at the observatory, explains that magma surges from a lower chamber, inflating like a balloon before bursting through narrow vents. This cycle, part of the same eruption since December, creates dramatic fountains as gas-rich magma forces its way out. Historically, Kilauea has followed similar patterns, with notable eruptions in 1959, 1969, and a prolonged 1983-2018 event that featured 44 fountain episodes.

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The current eruption’s future remains uncertain. It could shift to a lower vent, as seen in 1983, or halt if magma supply dwindles. Sensors tracking earthquakes and ground tilt provide a few days’ warning, but, as Hon notes, “Predicting Kilauea is like ants studying an elephant.” Recent fountains have been shorter but wider, suggesting evolving vent dynamics, according to geologist Steve Lundblad.

For Native Hawaiians, Kilauea’s lava is more than destruction—it’s creation. Huihui Kanahele-Mossman, of the Edith Kanakaole Foundation, sees lava as the foundation of Hawaii Island. Visiting the crater, she offers chants and gifts like awa and fern lei, connecting the eruptions to ancient mele (songs) performed by her family’s hula halau. “Seeing the lava described in our stories is thrilling,” she said.

Park visitation has surged 49% this year, driven by the eruption’s allure. However, park spokesperson Jessica Ferracane warns that episodes last just 10-12 hours, urging visitors to sign up for USGS alerts and stick to marked trails to avoid unstable cliffs, volcanic gas, and ash. Nighttime visitors need flashlights for safety.

As Kilauea prepares to erupt again, it continues to draw awe, reverence, and curiosity, blending science, culture, and nature’s untamed beauty.

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