Kilauea volcano is erupting on Big Island of Hawaii

HAWAII COUNTY, Hawaii – Kilauea volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, is erupting, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the eruption began at 2 a.m. local time on Monday, elevating Kilauea’s volcano alert system to the highest warning levels within a closed area of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

“The opening phases of eruptions are dynamic,” the USGS said.

Webcam imagery shows a line of fissures erupting lava fountains feeding lava flows at the base of Halemaʻumaʻu within Kaluapele (the summit caldera), officials said.

WHAT HAPPENS BEFORE A VOLCANO ERUPTS?

Live view of Kīlauea caldera, from the northwest rim of the caldera.

(USGS)

The USGS said the activity is currently confined to the summit caldera. However, high levels of volcanic gas, primarily water vapor, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide are a primary hazard of concern. 

This gas can have far-reaching effects downwind, creating a visible haze known as volcanic smog, officials said. Residents and visitors are advised to minimize exposure to volcanic ash and other volcanic particles, which can cause skin and eye irritation.