UPDATE: Kilauea Volcano is erupting with unprecedented activity as it celebrates the New Year, delivering astonishing lava fountains reaching heights of 1,574 feet (480 m). On December 23, 2024, the volcano began its latest episode, marking the start of an explosive new phase that has captivated observers on the Island of Hawaii.
Since the eruption commenced, Kilauea has experienced 39 lava fountaining episodes, with the most recent, Episode 39, occurring from December 23 to 24. During this episode, both the north and south vents produced lava fountains that peaked at approximately 1,400 feet (425 m). This activity underscores the volcano’s dynamic nature as it continues to raise the floor of the Halemaʻumaʻu crater significantly.
The volcanic activity has been remarkable throughout 2024, with fountaining episodes beginning modestly before surging to new record heights. The peak during Episode 35 on October 17 reached a staggering 1,574 feet, showcasing the volcano’s capability to produce extraordinary displays of nature. The cumulative volume of lava erupted has exceeded 200 million cubic meters (300 million cubic yards), more than double the average annual eruption from Puʻuʻōʻō over 35 years.
Experts from the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory confirm that the crater floor has risen by an average of 225 feet (69 m) due to the ongoing lava flows, with the vents themselves elevated by nearly 450 feet (137 m). This increase means that even if fountain heights stabilize, their peaks now exceed previous records from early 2025.
In addition to the visual spectacle, the ongoing eruptions have resulted in increased amounts of tephra—small lava particles—being dispersed across the landscape, affecting areas beyond the immediate vicinity of the volcano. While larger pieces primarily land within the confines of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, smaller ash particles are being carried by winds across the island, raising concerns for air quality.
As we enter January, the USGS indicates that another fountaining episode is likely between January 8 and 14, as the summit continues to reinflate. Authorities maintain a CLOSE WATCH on Kilauea, emphasizing that while current conditions show no signs of an imminent change, volcanic activity can shift rapidly.
Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and observe safety measures while enjoying the awe-inspiring displays of Kilauea. The USGS Volcano Alert level remains at WATCH, signaling heightened activity but no immediate threats to communities.
For continuous updates, volcano enthusiasts can visit the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory website, where detailed reports, photographs, and maps are available. Questions can be directed to the observatory at [email protected].
This year has proven to be a thrilling time for those witnessing Kilauea’s fiery performance. As the volcano continues to erupt and evolve, the excitement and anticipation of what lies ahead keep everyone on high alert.
