Kilauea, situated on Hawaii’s Big Island, continues to be one of the world’s most actively erupting volcanoes, drawing significant attention from both scientists and tourists alike.
Known for its frequent eruptions, Kilauea has drastically reshaped the nearby landscape throughout the years.
On December 23 of last year, the volcano erupted in the early hours, releasing glowing red lava that flowed down its slopes and illuminated the night sky with a thick layer of smoke.
The eruption commenced around 2 a.m. local time, fueled by increased seismic activity in the vicinity.
Fortunately, officials confirmed that the lava spread was contained within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, alleviating immediate concerns for nearby residents.
However, volcanic smog, which carries sulfur dioxide and poses a risk to respiratory health, emerged as an immediate concern, as noted by the BBC.
This latest bout of activity was just the beginning; in the months that followed, Kilauea erupted several times, with impressive lava fountains reaching up to 1000 feet this year.
The volcano struck again on June 11, sending lava spouting hundreds of feet into the air.
In a recent eruption on August 6, 2025, molten rock erupted as high as 165 feet and covered approximately 80% of the crater floor, according to the United States Geological Survey.
These eruptions are not mere spectacles; they have sparked discussions among experts regarding the volcano’s behavior and the need for extensive monitoring.
Paul Segall, a geophysics professor at Stanford University and an expert in volcanism, emphasized the importance of closely monitoring Kilauea during an interview with NBC News.
He stated, “Very few volcanoes are monitored as extensively as Kilauea. It’s one of the most heavily instrumented.
It’s a test case for the best scenario, given that this volcano erupts frequently, justifying the allocation of substantial resources.
During his discussions, Segall highlighted several precursory signs that usually indicate an impending eruption.
Typically, an increase in the frequency and number of earthquakes is observed, along with signs of ground deformation and emissions of volcanic gases.
Even prior to Kilauea’s significant eruption in 2018, scientists detected noticeable earthquakes and ground tilting—indicators of shifting magma beneath the surface.
Segall also noted that Kilauea is capable of generating explosive eruptions that can produce heavy ash clouds, adding to the complexity of monitoring this geological phenomenon.
The Hawaiian Islands, at the southeastern tip of a substantial volcanic chain formed over 70 million years ago, are a testament to the dynamic nature of this region.
Each island within this area boasts one or several volcanoes, contributing to the unique and diverse landscapes that draw visitors from across the globe.
Kilauea’s ongoing activity serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s force, enchanting observers while posing challenges for local residents and scientists alike.
image source from：greenmatters
