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

Kīlauea’s Eruptions Create Lava Fountains Exceeding 1,000 Feet

On Tuesday evening, Hawaii’s Kīlauea volcano displayed a remarkable display of volcanic activity, with its recent eruptions generating towering plumes of molten rock that soared beyond the height of many skyscrapers. The lava fountains, which reached over 1,000 feet in height, were accompanied by bursts of molten material that punctuated the night sky.

The U.S. Geological Survey noted in its daily volcano status report that Tuesday marked a fresh surge in the ongoing eruption, which began on December 23, 2024. A live stream of the volcanic activity attracted significant public interest, drawing thousands of viewers online. According to the USGS, the lava flows have covered roughly a third of the floor within Halemaʻumaʻu crater, a volcanic bowl at the volcano’s summit.

The National Park Service closed Kīlauea’s summit area due to the threat posed by volcanic fragments, or tephra, which can pose hazards to visitors. Similarly, the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency shut down Highway 11, the primary route to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, for the same reason earlier that day.

“Major volcanic eruption is imminent, underway, or suspected with hazardous activity both on the ground and in the air,” the USGS stated, assigning its highest warning level, red, to the current episode. The agency highlighted that nearby communities, including Volcano Village and Mauna Loa Estates, could be affected by falling tephra.

The National Weather Service extended an ashfall warning for the national park and surrounding areas southeast and southwest of it until 11 p.m. local time. This warning indicates that volcanic ash is present in the air, potentially causing respiratory issues and impacting essential services. Residents in the affected zone are advised to remain indoors, seal windows and doors, and keep electronic devices away from open vents to minimize exposure.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.