Kīlauea Volcano Erupts for the 14th Time Since December, Displaying Spectacular Fountains
The ever-restless Kīlauea volcano, a prominent fixture of the Island of Hawaii, has once again asserted its dynamic presence with its 14th eruption since December, as confirmed by geologists. This latest display of geological power commenced at 9:26 a.m. Hawaiian time on Wednesday and continued relentlessly for 29 hours, concluding at 1:49 p.m. on Thursday, according to data released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The most captivating phase of the eruption occurred during its final eight hours, characterized by impressive lava fountains that soared to heights of up to 600 feet. These molten jets primarily emanated from the south vent, located within the closed-off area of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The event drew attention and captured the imaginations of onlookers, with videos shared across social media platforms showcasing the mesmerizing spectacle of lava erupting skyward and cascading across the terrain.
One video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, captured the sentiment of awe and wonder, with an individual exclaiming, "Way over the rim! This is the biggest fountain I’ve seen yet." The footage offered a glimpse into the raw power and beauty of nature’s forces at play.
While the lava flows did not pose an immediate threat to nearby communities, the USGS has issued warnings regarding the potential hazards associated with volcanic gas and strands of volcanic glass known as "Pele’s hair," both of which can affect residents and visitors in the vicinity.
The primary safety concerns for those near the eruption site revolve around the high concentrations of volcanic gases released into the atmosphere. These gases consist primarily of water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Sulfur dioxide, in particular, can be irritating to the respiratory system and can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions. Elevated levels of carbon dioxide can displace oxygen, posing a risk of asphyxiation in enclosed spaces. Pele’s hair, a type of volcanic glass formed from stretched droplets of molten lava, can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
This recent eruption is the latest in a series of volcanic events that have punctuated Kīlauea’s activity since December 23. Each eruption episode has varied in duration, ranging from 13 hours to as long as eight days, according to the USGS. The periods of inactivity between eruptions have also fluctuated, lasting anywhere from a few hours to as many as 12 days.
The longest eruption episode recorded during this period occurred between December 26 and January 3, lasting for over a week. This prolonged period of volcanic activity served as a reminder of the volcano’s potential for sustained eruptions.
Kīlauea holds the distinction of being the most active volcano in the world. Its location in the southeastern region of the Island of Hawaii places it within the U.S. state of Hawaii. The volcano’s prominence is further enhanced by its inclusion within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a protected area that also encompasses Mauna Loa, another highly active volcano and a popular tourist destination.
The presence of these two active volcanoes within a single national park creates a unique geological landscape and attracts visitors from around the globe who seek to witness the raw power and beauty of volcanic activity firsthand.
The ongoing eruptions of Kīlauea serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust and the forces that shape our planet. The monitoring efforts of the USGS and other scientific organizations are crucial for understanding the behavior of volcanoes and mitigating the potential risks they pose to nearby communities.
As Kīlauea continues its cycle of eruptions and pauses, it will undoubtedly remain a subject of scientific interest and a source of fascination for those who marvel at the Earth’s natural wonders. The geological processes at play within Kīlauea provide valuable insights into the inner workings of our planet and highlight the need for continued research and monitoring to ensure the safety of those who live near active volcanic areas.
The recent eruption and the ongoing activity of Kīlauea underscore the importance of preparedness and awareness in areas prone to volcanic hazards. By staying informed about the latest warnings and following safety guidelines, residents and visitors can minimize their risk and appreciate the beauty of these natural phenomena from a safe distance.
The information provided in this report is based on data and observations from the U.S. Geological Survey and other sources. The USGS continues to monitor Kīlauea closely and provides regular updates on its activity. This article was contributed to by Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY.
