UPDATE: A significant eruption at Kilauea’s Halema‘uma‘u crater has entered a critical phase, with high lava fountaining expected to resume between December 22 and 27, 2025. This dynamic volcanic activity, which started on December 23, 2024, has captivated visitors at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while posing serious hazards.
Recent developments highlight the urgency of the situation. The latest fountaining episode, known as Episode 38, occurred on December 6, 2025, lasting for a dramatic 12 hours. During this episode, lava was propelled to heights exceeding 460 meters (1,500 feet), significantly reshaping the landscape and creating potential voids beneath the surface due to tephra deposits.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports a rapid change in eruption dynamics, stating, “Hazards can escalate abruptly.” The south vent of Kilauea has dramatically changed geometry, producing inclined fountaining that poses heightened risks. The eruption’s intensity and unpredictability underscore the need for safety precautions. Areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park remain closed to the public, especially where life-threatening hazards exist.
Officials also warn that volcanic air pollution, or vog, can affect areas beyond the immediate vicinity of the volcano, potentially reaching neighboring islands. Residents are urged to stay informed and heed local advisories.
Behind the scenes, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) is actively monitoring the situation. Teams are working tirelessly to revive monitoring stations buried under 10 meters (32 feet) of tephra and to measure the thickness of deposits for ongoing analysis. The integration of modern technology enables scientists to document this eruption in unprecedented detail, providing timely forecasts of future eruptive events.
As of December 15, 2025, the eruption has paused, with intermittent glow visible at both vents. However, experts are closely watching for any signs of renewed activity. The current USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH, indicating that the situation remains highly dynamic.
This eruption presents a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of Hawaiian volcanism. The combination of high lava fountaining and innovative monitoring techniques offers unparalleled insights into volcanic behavior. Visitors and residents alike are encouraged to prioritize safety and adhere to guidance from the park.
For real-time updates and safety information, the public is advised to visit the HVO website and remain aware of their surroundings. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Follow the latest developments to understand the full impact of this extraordinary volcanic activity.
