Kīlauea eruptions send fountains of lava arching more than 1,000 feet in the air

Kīlauea Eruptions Create Lava Displays Exceeding 1,000 Feet in Height

On Tuesday evening, Hawaii’s Kīlauea volcano delivered an eye-catching display, with its latest eruption generating lava arcs that surpassed the height of several tall buildings. The event featured sustained eruptions where molten rock reached over 1,000 feet above ground, with some peaks exceeding 1,300 feet—comparable to the upper levels of the Empire State Building.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) noted that Tuesday marked a renewed phase of activity for an eruption that began on December 23, 2024. The agency’s live feed of the volcanic activity attracted numerous online viewers, offering real-time visuals of the dramatic event. According to the USGS, lava flows have now spread across approximately one third of Halemaʻumaʻu crater’s interior, a caldera at the volcano’s peak.

Emergency Measures and Warnings Issued

The National Park Service has shut down Kīlauea’s summit area, warning of hazards from volcanic fragments. Similarly, Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency closed Highway 11, the primary route to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, due to the same risk. Nearby locations such as Volcano Village and Mauna Loa Estates may face tephra impacts, the USGS stated.

“Major volcanic eruption is imminent, underway, or suspected with hazardous activity both on the ground and in the air,” said the USGS regarding its highest alert level, red.

The National Weather Service expanded an ashfall warning for the park and surrounding regions to 11 p.m. local time. This alert indicates that volcanic ash is airborne, potentially causing respiratory issues and disrupting electrical systems. Residents in the affected zone are advised to remain indoors, seal windows, and keep devices away from outside air to minimize exposure.

Dennis Romero, a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital, reported on the developments.