Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano erupts again

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano has reawakened, erupting once again after nearly three months of relative quiet, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS). The eruption began around 3:15 p.m. local time in Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Kilauea’s summit caldera at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea is the youngest and most active volcano on the island, having experienced several summit eruptions since 2020.

According to the USGS, the eruption was preceded by a period of significant seismic activity and a rapid uplift of the summit. Videos captured lava flows emerging from fissures at the crater’s base, although the activity remained confined to the crater.

While the volcano is erupting, the primary concerns are volcanic gas and delicate strands of volcanic glass, known as Pele’s hair, which can be carried downwind. USGS issued a warning stating that strong winds could carry these particles to greater distances, potentially causing skin and eye irritation.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency reassured that, for now, the lava is confined to the summit and does not pose a threat to communities. However, the volcano alert level was elevated to “warning,” and authorities are assessing the potential hazards associated with the eruption.

Kilauea last erupted briefly in June, displaying impressive lava fountain bursts reaching heights of about 200 feet before ending on June 19, as reported by USGS. Prior eruptions in 2020, 2021, and 2018 had varying levels of impact, with the 2018 eruption being particularly destructive, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of homes and evacuations of surrounding areas.

This recent eruption serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of Kilauea and the ever-changing landscape in the region. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park emphasized the sacredness ingrained in the landscape, acknowledging the volcano’s significance in Hawaiian culture and history.

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