Lava Lights Up the Night as Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano Erupts Again
Lava fountains from Hawaii’s fiery Kilauea volcano put on a stunning show, illuminating the night sky. This fiery spectacle followed the volcano’s eruption on Sunday, marking its fifth eruption in nearly four years.
Early Tuesday, the U.S. Geological Survey shared a video capturing the mesmerizing sight of lava shooting into a molten rock lake within the summit crater at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
Kilauea, renowned as one of the most active volcanoes globally, roared to life on Sunday afternoon after a two-month hiatus.
The National Park Service (NPS) issued a reminder to visitors to stay safe and show respect for the dangers and sacred nature of Kilauea while witnessing the eruption.
Optimal Viewing and Safety Measures
Due to high concentrations of sulfur dioxide and volcanic particulates, the Keanakākoʻi viewing area remains closed. However, the NPS suggested that the best spots for viewing the lava lake and fountains are Uēkahuna, Kīlauea Overlook, and areas along Crater Rim Trail. It’s essential to keep in mind that conditions can change rapidly.
No Cause for Alarm
The alert level for Kilauea was downgraded on Monday, as there was no threat to infrastructure, and significant ash emissions into the atmosphere were limited to a small area within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Vog on the Horizon
On Monday, state health officials reported that the eruption had brought vog, or volcanic smog, to some parts of the Big Island, leading to poor air quality. Vog is created by the release of vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide gas from Kilauea.
A Familiar Sight
In June, Kilauea erupted for several weeks, featuring mesmerizing fountains of red lava. Fortunately, during that eruption, no communities or structures were threatened.
As nature continues its captivating display, we remain in awe of the power and beauty of the Earth’s forces.
[Image Source: U.S. Geological Survey via AP]
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