Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano has once again captured global attention with its dramatic eruption, sending lava fountains soaring over 1,000 feet into the sky—a breathtaking display of nature’s raw power. According to the United States Geological Survey, the latest explosive episode began in the early hours of June 20, 2025, marking the 26th lava fountaining event since December 2024. As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea continues to fascinate scientists and visitors alike, while also posing unique hazards for those on the Big Island. This article explores the eruption’s latest developments, the science behind Kilauea’s activity, and essential safety tips for anyone planning to witness this volcanic spectacle.

A Fiery Start to the Day

Shortly before midnight on June 19, Kilauea’s north vent began showing signs of increased activity, with small, sporadic lava spattering and overflows. By 1:40 a.m. on June 20, the volcano had ramped up its intensity, launching sustained lava fountains from the north vent within Halemaʻumaʻu crater. Within just 30 minutes, these fountains reached staggering heights of over 1,000 feet—an awe-inspiring sight captured by USGS cameras and shared by witnesses on social media.

The eruption fed a lava flow that remained confined to the Halemaʻumaʻu caldera, a massive crater at Kilauea’s summit. Seismic activity also surged during the event, underscoring the dynamic interplay between magma movement and the Earth’s crust.

Ongoing Activity and Hazards

Kilauea’s latest eruption is part of a pattern of frequent but short-lived episodes, with most lasting less than a day and separated by pauses of several days. The volcano also released a volcanic plume rising about 15,000 feet into the atmosphere, carrying with it hazardous volcanic glass strands known as Pele’s hair, rock fragments called tephra, and toxic gases such as sulfur dioxide. Winds from the north mean these materials are likely drifting south of the caldera, potentially affecting downwind communities.

The Science Behind Kilauea Volcano Eruptions

Why Is Kilauea So Active?

Kilauea is a shield volcano located on the Big Island, about 200 miles from Honolulu. It is one of six active volcanoes in Hawaii and is renowned for its frequent, effusive eruptions12. The current activity at Halemaʻumaʻu crater is driven by the movement of magma from deep beneath the surface, which periodically finds its way to the vent, resulting in spectacular lava fountains and flows.

Volcanic Gases and Health Risks

The eruption releases large quantities of volcanic gases, with sulfur dioxide (SO₂) being the most abundant. In some years, Kilauea has emitted over 1,000 tons of SO₂ per day, posing health risks—especially for those with respiratory or cardiac conditions. Other gases include hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrochloric acid, all of which can have acute effects on vulnerable individual.

Safety and Visitor Information

Risks and Precautions

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory maintains a “Watch” alert level and an “Orange” aviation color code, indicating that an eruption is underway but with limited immediate danger to aviation. However, the area around Halemaʻumaʻu crater has been closed to the public since 2007 due to risks such as crater wall instability, ground cracking, and rockfalls. The National Park Service urges visitors to stay in designated viewing areas and to heed all safety instructions.

Tips for Safe Volcano Viewing

• Stay in Designated Areas: Never enter closed or restricted zones.
• Be Aware of Hazards: Watch for unstable ground, sharp volcanic rocks, lava tubes, and hazardous gases.
• Monitor Air Quality: Check for updates on volcanic gas emissions and air quality before and during your visit.
• Prepare for Changing Conditions: Weather and volcanic activity can shift rapidly, so be ready for anything.

Kilauea Volcano A Natural Wonder and a Reminder of Nature’s Power

Kilauea’s latest eruption is a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of Hawaii. While the lava fountains and flows are a draw for tourists and scientists, they also serve as a powerful reminder of the need for caution and respect for nature’s forces6. The USGS and National Park Service continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and safety information to ensure that visitors can experience this natural wonder safely.