KĪLAUEA, Hawaii (KHON2) — The 31st eruptive episode happened at Kīlauea, confirmed by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.
On Fri., Aug. 22, at around 2:04 p.m., dome fountains and lava flows from the north vent began and slowly increased to about 20-40 feet high.
According to HVO, past eruption episodes have ignited lava fountains soaring over 1,000 feet high and created ash and gas plumes that rise up to 20,000 feet.
Sources say that all eruptive activity remains confined to Halemaʻumaʻu crater inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Officials stress that commercial airports in Hawaiʻi County, including Kona and Hilo, are not affected by this activity.
Hazards and Safety Concerns:
- Vog (Volcanic Smog): High levels of sulfur dioxide gas continue to be released and can impact air quality downwind of the summit.
- Pele’s Hair and Ash: Fine strands of volcanic glass– Pele’s hair, along with ash and pumice, can fall within 1–2 miles of the vent and pose skin and eye irritation risks.
- Lava Flow: Currently confined within the summit caldera, but visitors are urged to remain cautious.
Residents and visitors are told to limit exposure to volcanic gas and glass particles and to stay alert for changing conditions.
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HVO will continue to maintain Kīlauea closely and issue updates as needed.