The Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii has erupted, marking its first activity in a previously dormant area within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park since December 1974. The eruption began early Monday morning, prompting a swift escalation in alert levels by the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO). The ground-based hazard alert level was elevated from “watch” to “warning,” and the Aviation Color Code was upgraded from orange to red, signaling significant concerns for both ground and air safety.
Kilauea Eruption from Volcano House in the National Park. Insane. pic.twitter.com/OH3X4zqxtc
— Jax (@JaxWaller1) June 3, 2024
The eruption’s onset was detected around 12:30 a.m. local time, originating approximately a mile south of the Kīlauea caldera, near the Koa’e fault system and north of Hilina Pali Road. Observations from area webcams captured a noticeable glow, indicative of lava flowing from fissures in this long-inactive zone. This area last experienced volcanic activity in 1974 when an eruption persisted for just six hours. However, the duration of the current eruption remains uncertain, with scientists unable to predict its potential longevity.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with the HVO committed to providing ongoing updates as they observe signs of either escalating or diminishing volcanic activity. The immediate hazards posed by the eruption include the emission of toxic volcanic gases, which pose a significant risk to health and the environment. These gases can travel downwind, affecting air quality over a wide area.
Map showing the location of Kīlauea's current eruption. pic.twitter.com/JSXMRGsYlW
— USGS Volcanoes🌋 (@USGSVolcanoes) June 3, 2024
Furthermore, the presence of volcanic smog, or vog, has been reported. This haze contains harmful airborne particles and gases, which can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems for local residents and visitors. The vog also poses a threat to agricultural activities, with potential damage to crops and adverse effects on plant and animal health in the affected regions.
Lava flowing from Kilauea volcano in Hawaii.pic.twitter.com/euzvXYpqeY
— James Melville 🚜 (@JamesMelville) April 21, 2024
Residents and visitors in areas downwind of the eruption are advised to stay informed through official updates and be prepared for possible health advisories or safety measures as the situation develops. The eruption of Kīlauea serves as a reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of volcanic activity in Hawaii, underscoring the importance of vigilance and preparedness in these geologically active regions.
Major Points
- Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii erupted early Monday, its first activity in nearly 50 years within a previously dormant area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Alert levels were promptly elevated, with the ground-based hazard alert shifting from “watch” to “warning” and the Aviation Color Code moving from orange to red.
- The eruption originated about a mile south of the Kīlauea caldera and north of Hilina Pali Road, with lava observed flowing from fissures.
- Immediate hazards include the release of toxic volcanic gases and vog, posing health risks to residents and visitors and potential damage to the environment.
- The duration of the eruption is uncertain, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation, prepared to issue updates as necessary.
James Kravitz – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
